Sunday 28 May is LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Day. First celebrated in 2020, this awareness day highlights domestic, family and intimate partner violence and abuse that happens in LGBTIQA+ communities and provides the opportunity to give hope and courage to victims and survivors.
It is the only day like it in the world, to help increase visibility, start conversations, and break down barriers in a bid to end violence and abuse within LGBTIQA+ communities.
At Monash Health we believe everyone has the right to feel safe, supported and respected.
Denise Owen, our LGBTIQA+ subcommittee chair says our LGBTIQA+ community face unique challenges when it comes to domestic violence and may face intersecting barriers when accessing support.
“At Monash Health, we continue to recognise and address challenges to support our LGBTIQA+ colleagues to feel seen and believed,” she says.
More than 60% LGBTIQA+ people have experienced domestic, family or intimate partner violence and abuse in their lifetime.
Lines of domestic violence can become blurred for those in LGBTIQA+ communities, with abusive behaviours less likely to be identified. Myths and stereotypes exist which suggest that violence only occurs between men and women, and this can stop people identifying as a victim or perpetrator.
Christine Power, Monash Health Family Violence Project Manager says, we can stand by our colleagues and show support by equipping ourselves to sensitively and safely intervene.
“We can educate ourselves to play that critical role in allowing someone to access the support they need, tell their story or share their experience. We have resources and support available.
We can be that ‘someone’ that people can come to, regardless of what relationship they are in,” she says.
By fostering a culture of acceptance, respect, and equality, we can continue to be a workplace that is safe and nurturing for everyone.
Notice the signs
The LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Foundation has resources and informative videos to help people recognise the signs and barriers faced by our LGBTIQA+ communities and outlines ways for people to get help.
Resources for employees and support
We encourage you to visit the Respectful Relationships and Family Violence page for resources to help employees impacted by violence, along with information to ensure employees can identify, respond and provide advice to help keep people safe.
Prompt
- Managers can download the Family violence manager’s guide to supporting our employees
- Recommended Support Services
- Decision Making Flowchart (page 19)
Intranet
LATTE module
Family Violence support
- Employee Assistance Program (1300 338 465)
- People and Culture Business Partner via the advice line on (03) 9265 2724 or email hradvice@monashhealth.org
- Call 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732)
- Contact our Family Violence Team.
Approved by: Adjunct Professor Katrina Nankervis, Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery