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Following recent changes to departmental responsibilities, functions of the former Department of Housing and Public Works have been transferred to new departments. Work is underway to develop and update departments' websites.

Helping Seniors Rize Up

Last updated: 
20 August 2020 7:59AM  
First published: 
20 August 2020 7:58AM

Women of all ages can experience domestic and family violence. Older women can experience DFV, including those in long term relationships.

To support women of all ages who are victims of domestic violence, service providers and volunteers are working together to help move customers into a beautiful, safe home.

Anna is the team leader of the mobile service for the Safer Lives Safer Communities program at Brisbane Domestic Violence Service (BDVS). Her team support women in crisis accommodation.

“We listen to their story, identify their ongoing support needs, organise emergency relief such as food and clothes and help them apply for crisis payments,” Anna said.

“Before the pandemic, we would organise a refuge placement, but now we work with the department to find them safe long-term housing.”

Fiona from the Department of Housing and Public Works works with BDVS support workers helping women move to a safe home.

“We ensure that the woman has the choice of where she wants to live and is involved in the decision-making process.”

After a woman selects her home, Jodie from domestic violence charity Rize Up can help coordinate volunteers to furnish and decorate the home.

“We furnished a unit for an older woman who suffers from osteoarthritis. She requested a softer bed or mattress topper for her bed and a firm couch that is easy to get out of,” Jodie said.

“The volunteer involved in staging the unit purchased and donated a beautiful thick mattress topper.

“The support worker reported back that the lady thought the bed and bedding we supplied were really good quality.

“Our volunteers sourced items in floral, pink and navy blue to decorate the unit. The lady loved the little feminine touches throughout the house.”

If you or someone you know needs help to get out of a domestic violence situation, phone DVConnect Women’s line on 1800 811 811. Read more about how we help victims of domestic and family violence.

You can help Rize Up by donating quality household and personal items or by volunteering.