Search Results for: pets in crisis

• Safety Planning tips you need to know

  7th July, 2019 | by DVConnect

  Whether you are staying in order to prepare for the right time to leave, or you have left, we can help you with essential safety tips.

   

  If you are staying:

  If you are staying in the relationship, think about what you can do to keep yourself safe, particularly at times when your partner becomes abusive, or you sense the situation is escalating. 

  • Create ‘signals’ for supportive neighbours, family or friends that let them know to come over or to call for help. For example, switch on a particular light, leave a curtain blind closed /open, phone or text a friend with an agreed cue or a message that will be a prompt or code for them to help in whatever way you have discussed.
  • Keep essential items like spare keys, money and important documents or copies of them, where you can get to them easily quickly.
  • Plan and practice (with your children) how you might escape from your home safely and quickly. Think about the safest exits so that when you feel that things are getting out of control you can leave quickly.
  • If possible, keep weapons and knives locked up or inaccessible (e.g. remove knife-blocks from kitchen benches).
  • Let trusted friends, family or neighbours know about the abuse and let them know about your safety plan.
  • Have a code (perhaps a word or phrase) that you can use with someone you trust by phone or text so they know you are in danger and need help from them or the police.
  • Teach your children that their responsibility during an incident is to stay safe – not to rescue you.
  • Program the police, taxi company, local support service and a family member’s or friend’s number into the speed dial on your phone.
  • Plan where you will go and how you will get there in case you need to leave in a hurry.
  • If possible, keep a Safety Diary. Record any instances of abuse, and try to include details, dates, times and photos. You may want to keep your Safety Diary at your doctor’s office, a friend’s house or electronically but remember to make sure it is secure (you could use a password, email it to someone you trust or hide it under another name).
  • Keep text messages your partner sends to you, and save online messages or posts made by your partner.
  • Ask a family member or friend if they can take care of your pets at their house, or regularly take the pets for walks.

   

  Helping your children

  You can help your child emotionally recover from domestic violence in many ways:

  • Protect children from violence by taking them to a safe place.
  • Get support to take action against the violence, this will show them that violence is not acceptable.
  • Reassure the child that none of the violent episodes were their fault in any way.
  • Tell them how much you love them and cuddle them often.
  • Encourage them to talk openly about their feelings.
  • Get extra help for your child if necessary.
  • Enlist a professional from a specialist domestic and family violence service to help provide your child with emotional support.
  • Tell the child that abusive behaviour is wrong and be a role model for other ways of managing anger and solving problems.
  • Seek professional help, such as counselling, for all family members.

  https://youtu.be/BeVoFCwMcfM 

   

  Helping your pets

  Together with the RSPCA Queensland we operate the Pets In Crisis Program.

  • Call us and ask about our Pets In Crisis Program. Call 1800 811 811 anytime.
  • Read more, or watch a video about our Pets In Crisis Program. Learn More.

   

  If you are planning to leave:

  • Hide a bag with clothes, medication, keys and other important items that you can either exit with easily or leave with someone you trust.
  • Put aside some money for travel expenses, accommodation and food if you have access to money.
  • Make copies of important documents, e.g. car registration, tax file number, title deeds, loan records, Medicare card, drivers licence, account details, prescriptions, passports etc and leave them with someone you trust or take photos of them and store them securely.
  • Take small items you may be able to sell, like jewellery.
  • If you have children take clothes for them, medical records and medication, bottles and some of their favourite toys.
  • If you have pets, take food and equipment needed for travelling (e.g. leash, cage, documentation).

   

  If you have left:

  The time after leaving an domestic violence situation can be very dangerous. The below tips help reduce this risk but you should be very vigalent during this time.

  • Report to police and apply for an ADVO.
  • If you have an ADVO carry a copy of it with you at all times and give a copy of it and a photo of your partner to your workplace and your children’s school so that they are aware of the situation.
  • Redirect your mail and get a post office box.
  • Only give your new address and phone number to those you really trust.
  • Get a new SIM card and phone and turn your call preferences set to Private so your new number cannot be saved.
  • Think about getting a spare SIM card or phone if you want to communicate with your ex-partner about children or pets.
  • Wherever possible, change your regular patterns of movement, e.g. travel to and from work by a different route, buy your groceries at a different shop, change the time and maybe location of regular appointments, maybe move your children to a new day care centre or school.
  • Ensure where you are staying is as safe as possible, e.g. security doors, lockable windows, motion- sensitive external lights etc.
  • Let key people know about your situation, e.g. your boss and other work colleagues, your children’s teachers, so they know not to give out your details or they can screen your calls etc.
  • Continue to seek support from the domestic and family violence services and medical practitioners during this time.
  • Block your partner on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp and any other forms of social media or communication. Consider setting up a new profile that is secure.  Read through Facebook and other social media platforms Safety Tips.

   

  If you, or someone you know is experiencing domestic, family or sexual violence, DVConnect can help you find a pathway to safety, away from violence. The DVConnect helplines are:

  • Womensline 1800 811 811, available 24/7
  • Mensline 1800 600 636 available from 9am – midnight, 7 days
  • Sexual Assault Helpline 1800 010 120, available from 7.30am – 11.30pm, 7 days.
  • For more visit www.DVConnect.org.

  For more, contact 

• Support for LGBTQ+ people

  18th June, 2019 | by DVConnect

  Every LGBTQ+ person has the right to feel safe.

  LGBTQ+ people also have the right to feel safe to report domestic, family, intimate partner and sexual violence and abuse.

  DVConnect provides the Womensline, Mensline and Sexual Assault Helpline to all people, including LGBTQ+ people. You can call the helpline you feel most comfortable calling and ask for information and options from our experienced counsellors.

  • Womensline 1800 811 811
  • Mensline 1800 600 636
  • Sexual Assault Helpline 1800 010 120

  Watch this video to find out more about how we help.

  You are not alone

  Abuse is a bigger problem in LGBTQ+ communities than we think because many people do not feel as seen or supported as other members in our community.

  According to the LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Foundation, “More than 50% of LGBTQ+ people will experience domestic, family or intimate partner violence and abuse in their lifetime.”

  The chances are that you or someone you know is, or has been, in an unsafe relationship.

  Despite the prevalence, LGBTQ+ people are less likely to find support services that meet their specific needs, are less likely to identify DFV in their relationships and less likely to report it to the police or to seek support from services.

  How we help LGBTQ+ people

  Through our helplines, we can provide information and options such as:

  • Emergency transport and accommodation
  • Specialist crisis counselling
  • Safety planning
  • Information, referrals & support
  • Safe accommodation for pets through our Pets In Crisis program
  • And more.

  Call Womensline on 1800 811 811

  Call Mensline on 1800 600 636

  Find out more in the video below about how our team helps people in Queensland to live free from domestic, family and sexual violence.

  We know that asking for helping isn’t easy

  Reaching out for support is an extremely brave thing to do and our crisis counsellors thank you for putting trust in them.

  DVConnect is here to help you explore the options available so you can feel safe at home. We are well-versed in the unique forms of abuse that can be experienced by LGBTQ+ people. Our team respond to people of all experiences and backgrounds and undertake ongoing professional development to support our diverse clients.

  Our specialist crisis counsellors can provide confidential advice and support regardless of whether you are in a relationship, thinking about leaving or have already left. We will be guided by you in how we can help.

  Call us today.

  Call Womensline on 1800 811 811

  Call Mensline on 1800 600 636

  Resources and services

  • Are you wondering if your relationship with a partner or family member is abusive or unhealthy? Take this quiz to find out more.
  • Learn more about unhealthy relationships on the Say It Out Loud website
  • Queer without Fear Booklet
  • Find a QPS LGBTI Liaison Officer
  • LGBTI Legal Service
  • Peer support for parents of LGBTQ+ children of all ages
  • LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Foundation
  • Open Doors Youth Service
  • QLD Council for LGBTI Health

  

   

• What to expect when you call DVConnect Womensline

  23rd February, 2019 | by DVConnect

  Reaching out for support is an extremely brave thing to do and our team thank you for putting trust in them. You will be believed and listened to when you call DVConnect Womensline. We also work with family, friends and professionals who are calling about a woman they have concerns for.

  Call 1800 811 811

  What happens when you call DVConnect Womensline

  You should call DVConnect Womensline if you are seeking an immediate pathway to safety. If you are in danger, you should call the police on 000. 

  When you contact DVConnect Womensline, a team member will answer your call. This usually happens within a few minutes. This first person you speak to will ask you a few questions about your situation, including whether you are safe right now.  

  You will then be transferred to another team member. Depending on your unique situation, a few things might happen. 

  If you are in a crisis and seeking an immediate pathway to safety, you will speak with a specialist crisis counsellor. They will ask you more questions and complete an intake process with you. If necessary, they will provide you with emergency transport to safety and/or emergency accommodation.  

  Depending on what you need, the counsellor may help you with transport to a safe friend or family member’s home, or book you into accommodation if you have nowhere else to stay. This service is free – you will not need to pay for transport or accommodation. You will be able to take your children with you. We may also be able to help you keep your pets safe through the Pets in Crisis program. You will not be able to take your pet with you to emergency accommodation, but the RSPCA will take care of them until you are safe and then return your pet to your care.  

  If you are experiencing domestic and family violence but do not need emergency transport or accommodation, you will speak to a specialist support counsellor. This person can help you with things like brief counselling or making a safety plan. 

  If you are not in an immediate crisis, you may be referred to a different organisation. DVConnect works with a dedicated network of local regional domestic and family violence services. These organisations can give you ongoing, face-to-face support for you and your family.  

  Call 1800 811 811

  How long is the wait time? 

  DVConnect Womensline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Someone from DVConnect will answer your call within a few minutes. Depending on your situation and the pathway you need, you may be placed on hold for a short amount of time. When you are talking to a crisis counsellor, you may be on the phone for up to an hour while we discuss your options and find you a place to stay. If at any point your situation becomes unsafe, your counsellor will tell you to call 000. 

  Will DVConnect contact the police? 

  DVConnect works closely with the Queensland Police Service to ensure victim-survivors are safe. However, we also know that some people would prefer not to involve the police for various reasons.  

  You do not have to contact the police to receive help from DVConnect. We will only contact the police if there is risk to you or someone else’s safety.  

  Call 1800 811 811

• DVConnect Womensline

  19th February, 2019 | by DVConnect

  Every person has the right to feel safe in their home, however, we know that for many people who have been impacted by domestic, family, and sexual violence, home can be the most dangerous place.

  DVConnect Womensline is a free helpline for women and their children in Queensland who are experiencing domestic and family violence.

  If you identify as non-binary or gender fluid, you can call the helpline you feel most comfortable calling (DVConnect Womensline or DVConnect Mensline). We are here for you.

  Call 1800 811 811

  How we help

  DVConnect Womensline is available 24/7, 365 days a year and can provide:

  • Emergency transport and accommodation
  • Specialist crisis counselling
  • Safety planning
  • Information, referrals & support
  • Safe accommodation for pets through our Pets in Crisis program
  • And more.

  Call DVConnect Womensline on 1800 811 811

  Find out more in the video below about the ways in which our team at DVConnect can help.

  We know that asking for help isn’t easy

  We know how difficult it can be to reach out and ask for help, even when you really want to.

  Our crisis counsellors are here to help you explore the options available so you can feel safe at home or feel safe in leaving. We will be guided by you in how we can best provide support.

  Domestic and family violence is against the law

  Domestic and family violence is not acceptable in Australia. You do not need to remain in an unsafe relationship in order to stay in Australia. There are legal protections available to people who have experienced abuse from their partner or family members, including permanent and temporary visa holders. Find out more about domestic violence and the law in this Factsheet from Women’s Legal Service Queensland.

  Please call us if:

  • You feel unsafe at home
  • You’re unsure if what you are experiencing is abuse
  • You are worried that someone you know is experiencing abuse in their relationship

  Call 1800 811 811

  Translators and Interpreters

  You do not have to speak English to access our support. If you speak another language, please call the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) on 131 450 to connect with us. 

  If you are deaf and/or find it hard to hear or speak, please use the National Relay Service to call us.

  Find out more information about domestic and family violence below.

  Safety Planning

  DVConnect can help you with safety planning whether you have made the decision to stay in a relationship, are thinking about leaving, or have already left an abusive relationship.

  What is safety planning?

  Safety planning involves having an actionable plan in place that can help minimise any harm to you and your loved ones, particularly at times when you are concerned that the abuse is escalating.  

  Please remember that ultimately the responsibility to stop the violence is the responsibility of the person who chooses to use violence.

  An actionable and realistic safety plan can involve making practical adjustments that can enhance your ability to leave quickly should you need to. For example, it can include reversing the car in the driveway and making sure that it is not blocked off so you can exit quickly. It can also involve having a bag packed and ready to go with medication and identification documents. It could also involve making a mental note of the rooms in your house with a lock on them so that you are able to make a call for help in a safe place.

  Below are some safety planning steps to help you create a Safety Plan specific to your own personal circumstances.

  If you are staying

  • Develop ‘signals’ with supportive neighbours or friends, for example, hanging a white sheet on your clothesline could indicate you need someone to call the Police.  
  • Keep essential items like spare keys, money and important documents where you can get to them quickly.
  • Plan and practice (with your children) how you might escape from your home quickly. Think about the safest exits.
  • Teach your children that their responsibility is to stay safe – not to rescue you.
  • Plan where you will go and how you will get there in case you need to leave in a hurry (for example a friend’s house, or a 24/7 Police Station if it is available to you).
  • Ask a family member or friend if they can take care of your pets at their house.

  If you are leaving

  • Prepare a bag with clothes, medication, keys and other important items.
  • Put aside some money for travel expenses, accommodation and food if possible.
  • Make copies of important documents, e.g. car registration, tax file number, title deeds, loan records, Medicare card, driver’s licence, account details, prescriptions, passports, etc and leave them with someone you trust or take photos of them and store them securely.
  • If you have children, take clothes for them, medication, bottles and some of their favourite toys.
  • If you have pets, take food and items needed for travelling (e.g., harness and travel carrier).
  • Prepare to take paid domestic violence leave from work. All employees in the Fair Work system (including part-time and casual employees) will be entitled to 10 days of paid family and domestic violence leave in a 12-month period. Paid family and domestic violence leave is available for employees of non-small business employers, from 1 February 2023. Employees of small businesses can access the leave from 1 August 2023. Find out more here.

  After you have left

  • Report abuse to the Police and apply for a DVO.
  • If you already have a DVO, carry a copy of it with you. If you feel comfortable, share a copy of it and a photo of your partner with your workplace and your children’s school so that they are aware.
  • Redirect your mail and get a post office box. Australia Post provides these services for free to survivors of domestic and family violence, subject to eligibility. Find out more here.
  • Get a new SIM card so you have a new phone number.
  • Think about getting a spare SIM card or phone if you are legally required to communicate with your ex-partner about your children.
  • If you haven’t already, link in with a domestic and family violence service for support.
  • Block your partner on social media or set up a new private profile.

  Every person’s Safety Plan is unique. While you can make a Safety Plan on your own, our crisis counsellors can give you ideas and information to help you make one.

  Important

  Using abuse is a choice and it is never your fault. You are not responsible for your partner (or ex-partner’s) abusive behaviour, and you cannot stop them from choosing to use violence.

  The person using abuse is responsible for making the choice to abuse, just as they are responsible for making the choice to stop. A Safety Plan helps to protect your safety when the person using violence makes the choice to harm.

  Call us today to create a Safety Plan.

  Call DVConnect Womensline on 1800 811 811

  Domestic violence and housing

  DVConnect can provide information and support whether you are wanting to stay in the home, are thinking about leaving, or have already left.

  If you are escaping domestic and family violence and need a safe place to go, call DVConnect to discuss your options including staying with a safe family member or friend, accessing shelters (or refuge), finding out who your local specialist service is, or other alternatives.

  Shelters

  Women’s Shelters (sometimes called safe houses or refuge) provide safe and secure accommodation and specialist support for women and children escaping domestic and family violence. DVConnect has relationships with shelters throughout Queensland and assists families to access these places of safety every day.

  It’s important to know that shelters are not the only option or even the first option to keep you safe. Shelter spaces are in high demand so our crisis counsellors will ask you first if you have a family member or friend who is safe to say with, or if there are other accommodation options that you might have available. 

  What to expect at Shelter

  • Shelters vary and can be communal or provide self-contained units.
  • Shelters provide temporary accommodation where women and children stay for a couple of weeks or a few months.
  • Shelters are staffed with employees who help women to get back up on their feet and prepare for life after refuge.
  • To maintain security and safety, the location and details of shelters are confidential and not available to the public. It is a condition of entering most shelters that you understand you cannot reveal the location to anyone including your family.
  • Shelters do not have the facilities to store large items and furniture, so it is best to pack lightly and leave larger items with a safe family member, friend or at a storage unit.

  To find out more about Shelter, visit the CWRG website.

  For renters

  If you are experiencing violence and are renting your home, you have rights under Queensland Tenancy Law.

  • You are not responsible for break lease costs when you end your tenancy due to domestic violence
  • If you want to stay but don’t feel safe, you have the right to change the locks without the lessor or agent’s agreement
  • You are not responsible for damage related to an act of domestic violence

  Watch this video to find out more about your rights.

  Learn more from Tenants Queensland here.

  Call DVConnect Womensline on 1800 811 811

  Legal support

  While DVConnect cannot provide legal assistance, we work closely with services that may be able to assist you such as Women’s Legal Service Queensland, Caxton Legal Centre and Legal Aid Queensland. You can reach out to these services directly via their websites.

  Call DVConnect Womensline on 1800 811 811