SEXUAL violence will not be tolerated in the community.
That’s the message communicated loud and clear through Sexual Violence Awareness Month (SVAM), every October.
SVAM raises awareness about sexual violence and promotes the support options available to people who have been affected by sexual assault and sexual abuse.
Locally, Whitsunday Counselling and Support Inc. has been holding events, including an ‘Understanding Sexual Violence’ workshop, held at its premises in Cannonvale, on October 16.
There will also be a free barbecue on Cannonvale Beach, on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 7.30am to 10am.
Present at last week’s workshop were representatives from the police, Child Safety, Head Space, Tailored Lifestyle Connections, Well Space Australia and the Proserpine Community Centre.
Attendees were taken through what constitutes sexual violence and what to do when someone reports it, including believing them, being supportive and asking how you can help.
Attendees were taken through case studies, and various scenarios that could happen, and were taught the appropriate responses.
Sexual violence is any form of unwanted or forced sexual behaviour, or act toward another, regardless of age or gender, that occurs without consent.
From March 2024, new laws have been passed by government, strengthening sexual consent laws, including the new ‘affirmative model of consent’, where consent must be mutually agreed and discussed.
At the end of the workshop, sexual violence counsellor and presenter Charlotte Jones lit a candle as a ‘symbol of hope for a future free of sexual violence’.
The sexual violence workshops can also be delivered by Whitsunday Counselling and Support in organisations’ own premises.
Also in support of Sexual Violence Awareness Month, there will be a free barbecue on Cannonvale Beach, on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 7.30am to 10am.
Everyone is welcome. Information about sexual violence awareness will be on hand and there will be a free sausage sizzle.
Whitsunday Counselling and Support Inc. is a not-for-profit, community based organisation offering a range of free and confidential services, provided in a safe and respectful environment.
Photo: Front – Francesca Troxell, Sharon Parker, Charlotte Jones. Back – Ali Rosemond, Niamh Mulvihill, Andrea Bradley and Soleil Scott, pictured following the ‘Understanding Sexual Violence’ workshop, on October 16, 2024.
For more information visit www.whitsundaycs.com.au
HELP LINES
Sexual violence support services include:
Whitsunday Counselling and Support Inc.
Queensland Sexual Assault Network
1800 RESPECT
DV connect (sexual assault line)
Headspace (12-25 y.o.)
National Redress Scheme
Bravehearts – The Courage Project
PoliceLink
Kids Helpline – free 24/7 – 1800 55 1800.
