Family violence is a prevalent health issue in our community and Northern Health is committed to improving response to family violence for our patients and staff.

On Friday 23 November, we will host our first ‘Breaking Through the Barriers’ Forum, focussing on practical ways professionals can be more supportive, approachable, and effective in supporting people when family violence is present.

Anyone can be a victim/survivor of family violence, but there are some communities within society who face a higher risk.

Northern Health’s primary catchments, the City of Hume, City of Whittlesea and Mitchell Shire Council, experience the highest rates of family violence in Victoria, making it vitally important for our staff to develop skills to help them effectively identify and respond to family violence.

We are committed to improving the health and wellbeing of those experiencing family violence in Melbourne’s north. Northern Health is the second health service in Victoria to be awarded White Ribbon Accreditation, a program which recognises workplaces that promote respectful relationships and gender equality.

The Forum will feature presenters who work within these at risk communities. Presenters include:

• Charelle Jackson – Elizabeth Morgan House (Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Communities)
• Matthew Parsons – LGHV (LGBTI+ Communities)
• Lucia Prinzi – inTouch (Culturally & Linguistic Diverse Communities)
• Stephanie Hosking – GV Health (Workplace Disclosures)
• Alison Maclean – 3whitehorses (Rural & Regional Communities)

Alison Maclean from 3whitehorses says, “Encouraging gender equality in our every day lives and being positive role models for others (particularly our children) is a key focus.”

The forum is suited to professionals of all levels of experience who work with people experiencing family violence. It is a free and open event and everyone is encouraged to attend.

For more information and to register head to Eventbrite.