A helping hand

WITH DOMESTIC VIOLENCE services reporting increased rates of abuse during the pandemic, Our Watch CEO Patty Kinnersly has urged individuals and organisations not to lose sight of the issue amid the mounting COVID-19 crisis. More than half of women who had experienced violence before the pandemic reported violence becoming more frequent or severe, according to an Australian Institute of Criminology survey. “And as we begin to understand the longer-term impacts of this crisis on women, we must also continue our work for long-term prevention of violence,” Ms Kinnersly said. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au