New resources to support women with disability experiencing DFV

The Palaszczuk Government has launched a new range of information and awareness resources for women with disability who may be experiencing domestic and family violence.

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Shannon Fentiman said the resources formed part of the government’s commitment to addressing women’s safety and domestic and family violence prevention for more vulnerable Queenslanders, including people with disability.

“We know that women with disability are almost twice as likely to experience domestic and family violence, and this is simply not acceptable,” Minister Fentiman said.

“In many cases, when women with disability experience domestic and family violence, it is at the hands of their partner or relative who also acts as their primary support carer.

“We are invested in the safety of Queensland women, and particularly ensuring that more vulnerable women have access to the help and support they need.

"These resources have been developed in consultation with women with disability and the disability and domestic and family violence services sector and aim to raise awareness of what domestic and family violence looks like and how to safely reach out for support.”

Minister Fentiman said the resources would be available online, with printed materials also being made available through a pilot program at participating GP clinics in Brisbane South, Darling Downs and West Moreton Primary Health Networks.

“Materials being made available through selected GP clinics will include a poster, easy read booklet and brochure,” she said

“The easy-read booklet and online content have also been developed in consultation with an accredited easy read communication specialist to support health professionals to support women with disability experiencing domestic and family violence.”

Minister Fentiman said the Palaszczuk Government was also making available domestic and family violence training for the disability sector workforce.

“The disability sector workforce is well positioned to engage with people with disability at risk of, or experiencing domestic and family violence,” she said.

“We are committed to supporting the disability sector workforce to respond appropriately, which is why we are making available online a number of training modules and supporting resources.

“This training will equip the disability sector workforce and organisations to effectively identify and respond to domestic and family violence experienced by women with disability.”

For more information visit: www.qld.gov.au/neverokay

ENDS

Media Contact:          Inga Williams              0439 949 719