A freshly painted red bench installed outside the emergency department at Mater Hospital Brisbane aims to serve as a powerful symbol and potential lifeline for victims of domestic abuse.
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The Red Bench project, created by the Red Rose Foundation, encourages people to "take a seat to take a stand" against domestic and family violence. Bright red benches placed in public spaces signal that support and resources are available for those experiencing abuse.
At Mater Hospital Brisbane alone, the emergency department saw 160 cases of domestic violence last year, along with 55 cases of non-fatal strangulation linked to intimate partner violence. The red benches at both Mater Private and Mater Public hospitals make it clear that clinicians are trained to provide a safe space for disclosure and assistance.
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"The burden of disease created by domestic and family violence in our communities and on our health services is truly immeasurable," said Rebecca Latham, Mater's Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Project Officer. Domestic abuse impacts every area from emergency care to maternity wards, paediatrics, mental health services and elder care.
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Ms Latham has implemented training to help Mater staff recognise signs of abuse, support victims, and facilitate referrals to community resources. The "destructive tentacles" of domestic violence are far-reaching, she said, putting women at higher risk of pregnancy complications, preterm births and postpartum depression.
“The perinatal period is a known high-risk time for women in terms of DFV. It’s when DFV can either begin or escalate,” Ms Latham said.
“The drivers of that are complex but controlling partners are challenged by all the changes that occur around this time that are outside of their influence, such as a women’s investment emotionally in their new baby.”
Acting Senior Sergeant Sharon Morgan and Ms Rebecca Latham (Photo supplied)
Acting Senior Sergeant Sharon Morgan of the Queensland Police Service, herself a past victim of physical and coercive control in an abusive relationship, emphasises that "domestic violence can happen to anyone."
“What I have endured has helped me become a better police officer and have compassion and an understanding of what victims of abuse are going through,” Acting Snr Sergeant Morgan said.
“By working collaboratively with external partners like Mater, the Queensland Police Service aims to empower the community to recognise the signs of DFV and encourage to report it to police or access support services.”
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Last year, Queensland police responded to over 140,000 domestic violence calls, with most officers encountering at least one case per shift.
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The red bench campaign, launched in 2019 by the Red Rose Foundation, has now placed over 400 benches nationwide as permanent reminders that domestic abuse occurs across all communities. Eight Mater hospitals in Queensland will unveil their own red benches this May during Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month.
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By taking a seat on the bright red bench, the public can take a stand in supporting victims and raising awareness. The bold installations provide a vital opportunity to keep the issue visible and let survivors know they have a safe place to find help.
Published 28-May-2024
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