The Women’s Legal Service (WLS) is bringing a workshop on domestic violence and family law to Dalby this month, with backing from Arrow Energy.
On July 17 and 18, WLS will hold education workshops for local domestic violence and community support services as well as giving direct legal assistance to women affected by violence.
“WLS put forward a compelling case for bringing this program into regional Queensland and Arrow is pleased to lend its assistance,” said Arrow’s Community Relations Manager Glenda Viner.
“Dalby will be its second stop.
“Arrow has a commitment to supporting the safety of communities in our operational footprint, like Dalby.”
WLS Community Legal Education Lawyer Angela Lynch said the visit was aimed at building local capacity.
“The vital help that’s given to regional women comes from services like community centres, domestic violence services and church-based groups,” Ms Lynch said.
“Although they may deal with life and death situations, they can receive little support or professional development due to their geographic location.
“By using this program to increase their capacity and support, we will potentially assist hundreds of women.
“Literature on domestic violence consistently recommends the need for localised education and capacity building, which is what we’ll be providing.”
Ms Lynch described domestic violence as “a prevalent health, social, economic and legal problem”.
“Women in regional areas face increased vulnerabilities to domestic violence because of factors including physical and social isolation, and under-resourcing of support services,” Ms Lynch said.
In Dalby, WLS will provide:
- Training for frontline workers, covering legal protections and practical information on how to help victims of violence. All participants will receive a training manual to share with co-workers.
- One-on-one clinics for vulnerable women who will be provided with free legal support.
The workshop and clinic will be held at the Myall Youth and Community Network Centre.
For more information, visit the Women’s Legal Service website.
Arrow is backing the program through its Brighter Futures community investment fund.
Brighter Futures supports local, not-for-profit community groups and organisations undertaking projects and initiatives that make a sustainable contribution to Arrow’s areas of operation throughout Queensland.
The Women’s Legal Service is a specialist community legal centre that provides free legal advice and welfare support to women in Queensland.