Responding to the reality of domestic and family abuse

Research conducted by the National Anglican Church found the prevalence of intimate partner violence among Anglicans is the same, if not higher, than in the wider community.

Domestic and family abuse is no longer considered a private matter but a societal issue, and we must all make a stand against it.

A ‘Domestic and Family Abuse Awareness Sunday’ will take place on 23 July.

It is an opportunity for parishes to have an increased concentration on domestic and family abuse and reflect on what they can do in response to an issue affecting many within the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle.

Our Bishops will share the work being done on a national level and explain how this is guiding our response.

Domestic and Family Abuse Project Officer Kylie Harrod is also available to visit parishes to give more details and presentations.

What are we doing in response to domestic and family abuse?

Newcastle Anglican has entered Stage Two of its Domestic and Family Abuse Project. This stage includes a focus on Clergy. It aims to help them respond to the issue of domestic and family abuse.

A second study from the National Anglican Church found that Clergy and lay leaders’ confidence in their personal capacity to respond to the issue was only low to moderate.

In response to this, our Diocesan Clergy will now participate in a two-hour domestic violence awareness workshop, delivered by Lifeline.

This training will enable them to gain a greater awareness of the issue, so they can better recognise the signs and respond appropriately to those affected by it.

To further increase confidence in our ability to respond, the Diocesan Domestic and Family Abuse Working Group has developed responding resources, which highlight key considerations that need to be addressed.

These resources cover legal and ethical obligations; key steps and considerations when responding; where to refer; and making a referral.

It’s hoped this increased knowledge will enable the Clergy to offer support with an emphasis on safety-first, deep listening and validation, while also knowing where they can make a referral for specialist support.

Domestic and Family Abuse

Awareness

Sunday 23 July