Don't do it alone.
That is the message from DVassist manager Inez Carey who said if you want to leave a violent situation, reach out for help.
DVassist is a domestic and family violence specialist phone counselling service and online directory, to provide information and support for people living in regional and rural WA.
Ms Carey said on average it takes a woman seven attempts to leave a violent relationship before they actually leave.
"The most dangerous time for a woman is when the relationship has ended and then she leaves," she said.
"If you are thinking about leaving, contact us or another service and we can provide a safety pack and help make a plan."
Ms Carey said this time of year sees an increase in violence but often victims do not come forward for help until after the holidays were over.
"We encourage people to get help when they feel it is safe to do so," she said.
Last financial year WA police recorded a 26.8 per cent increase in family violence logged for attendance during the Christmas and New Year period compared to the rest of the year.
Police also recorded a 24.2 per cent increase in reported family violence that was investigated by police during the Christmas and New Year period.
Police orders issued to protect victims increased by 35.6 per cent during the Christmas and New Year period.
DVassist has also seen people come forward for help in preparation for the festive season as well as people who are struggling from memories of the past.
The Mail recently reported the funding cut of a behaviour change program for male perpetrators in the South West.
Ms Carey said when a family and domestic violence program is cut, the whole industry feels the gap.
"Just because the program is gone does not mean the need for it is gone," she said.
DVassist do not have any resources for perpetrators but will be implementing a behaviour change program in the New Year.
The organisation will also be introducing a silent support webchat option in the early 2021. Ms Carey said there were many barriers for women who need to access help with the perpetrator controlling every aspect of their life.
If you need help contact DVassist on 1800 080 083.
Jemillah Dawson
I started as a journalist in 2011 and now manage mastheads in the South West of WA. My passion is politics and sport. I believe we are the voice for the community but also we inform the community of what they need to know. Email jemillah.dawson@austcommunitymedia.com.au
I started as a journalist in 2011 and now manage mastheads in the South West of WA. My passion is politics and sport. I believe we are the voice for the community but also we inform the community of what they need to know. Email jemillah.dawson@austcommunitymedia.com.au
