Domestic violence victims help others

ACON wants victims of same-sex domestic violence (SSDV) to come forward and share their stories for a new education campaign.

It’s hoped the information, which will be used in posters and brochures, will encourage other victims to seek help and assist ACON to build a better understanding of SSDV in the gay and lesbian community.

People providing information can remain anonymous.
ACON’s acting CEO Alan Brotherton said by sharing their stories victims of SSDV will be able to help other people in similar situations.

One of the things we know is always powerful in terms of getting people to recognise they are victims of domestic violence, is through other people’s stories, Brotherton said.

ACON began their SSDV campaign at this year’s Mardi Gras Fair Day in February with a range of resources including a website (ssdv.acon.org.au), posters and brochures.

We have already seen a remarkable response to the campaign in our counselling service and with calls to the Anti-Violence Project Report Line, ACON president Adrian Lovney said.

The number of people seeking counselling has increased four-fold since the campaign began, while callers to the phone line had tripled, Lovney said.

For more information contact ACON on 9206 2082 or [email protected].