Ripple Effect Felt Across Two Regions
Wednesday, June 5th, saw a dynamic discussion around this important topic:
“Can funded educational programs like playgroups and free kindergarten be used as a strategy to tackle domestic family violence?”
Mirjam Klein discussed the ‘Ripple Effect’ of domestic violence, sharing statistics on its negative impacts. She also highlighted the positive difference made with proper funding and support for educators and providers.
Nadia Harley from the Department of Education in Rockhampton highlighted the great benefits of programs like Kindy and Playgroup for children and parents. The Queensland government provides strong financial support to ensure positive outcomes and give children a solid foundation for their future.
Based in Gladstone, Linda Arnall (Department of Education), spoke of state and federal programs that have directly benefited our local region. She detailed how these can be accessed by educators to aid their teams in supporting the families walking through their doors.
During Rockhampton’s panel discussion, Sandy Hansen (HIPPY Rockhampton), Michelle Hamilton (Benevolent Society), and Nadia Hoare (Playmatters) shared real-life stories of how they deal with domestic violence when they encounter this in their profession; the audience learned many strategies these professionals implement to ensure that the participants of their programs are in a safe environment.
Our panel discussion in Gladstone, led by Mitra Khakbaz (Gladstone Women’s Health Centre), Naomi Harris (C&K Gladstone Community Kindergarten) and Wendy Morris (GAPDL Communities for Children) shared first-hand experiences of people working in the industry and those implementing programs. They spoke of the positive impact on families when conversations informed by professionals are initiated.
Those in attendance at both events connected with fellow educators, gained practical strategies and left feeling empowered to make a difference in their community.
The Ripple Effect was funded through the Safer Pathways Program by Department of Social Services
