ORANGE support services staff who work closely with domestic violence victims in Orange welcome the state government announcement NSW high school students will be taught how to recognise domestic violence and seek help as part of the school curriculum.
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“We know the best way to tackle domestic violence is through early intervention as it is a social problem that requires long-term solutions,” Housing Plus domestic violence services manager, Penny Dordoy said.
“Educating children that domestic violence is not normal will go a long way to breaking the cycle of domestic violence,” she said.
Ms Dordoy said in Orange Department of Education staff have already taken an active role in domestic violence reforms implemented through the Domestic Violence Safety Action meetings.
Orange was identified to host a trial involving reforms designed in September last year due to the high levels of domestic violence.
“But Orange was also chosen because we have excellent government and non-government agencies to support the radical changes.
Earlier this week the state government announced the model would be rolled out across the state.
Since its inception in September last year the service has received over 1200 referrals from police with around 375 victims being deemed at serious threat, with a total of 227 children in their care.
Detective Acting Inspector Yonneka Hill said domestic violence victims have a number of people and agencies who are passionate and extremely committed to helping them stay safe to help support them.
“All victims of domestic violence within our command are able to access the many services available to them,” she said.
Executive director of curriculum with the NSW Board of Studies Paul Hewitt said yesterday the directive will be an opportunity to the way they teach students about domestic violence.
“While we have been emphasising it isn’t acceptable in the playground, on the sporting field or at work, we want our students to be very aware of the situation in the home environment,” he said.
The personal development, health and physical education syllabus will be changed to include domestic violence prevention for students in years 7 to 10 from 2015.
“We urge women to seek help if they are experiencing domestic violence,” Ms Dordoy said.
If you are in immediate danger call 000 and ask for police.
Or call 6361 1999 or the domestic violence line on 1800 656 463.
