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Canberra Today 13°/16° | Friday, March 29, 2024 | Digital Edition | Crossword & Sudoku

The Domestic Violence Christmas Program is underway

Yvette Berry

YVETTE Berry says increased short-term crisis accommodation will be available for anyone affected by domestic or family violence during the Christmas holiday period commencing today.

“There is an increased need for emergency accommodation for families experiencing domestic violence over the Christmas period,” Yvette said.

“The Domestic Violence Christmas Program is operating for the 11th consecutive year and is run collaboratively by Housing ACT, the Domestic Violence Crisis Service and specialist homelessness services that work together to deliver an innovative program solution that meets the needs of Canberrans at risk of experiencing violence.

“During the time the program has been in operation 420 people have been accommodated, 2883 accommodation nights have been provided and a total of 6813 bed nights have been supplied.

“Under the program, families experiencing domestic violence are provided with emergency accommodation and support by specialist homelessness services to ensure positive outcomes can be achieved immediately and in the longer term.

“The program also offers an alternative accommodation option for the person who has used violence to allow the remainder of the family to stay in their home.

“Here in Canberra our community sector is working hard to meet the needs of women who experience violence. Organisations like the Domestic Violence Crisis Service and Canberra Rape Crisis Centre work around the clock to support women and law enforcement to tackle this issue, not just during the festive period, but the whole year round.

“The Domestic Violence Christmas Program begins today and will run until Wednesday 27 January 2016.

“If there is anyone in our community who is experiencing domestic violence during the Christmas period I encourage them to get in contact with this crisis line which is a 24-hour service on 6280 0900.”

[Photo via yvetteberry.com.au ]

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