During these uncertain times, Embolden would like to update our members, supporters and friends on the impact of COVID-19 among our community.
Domestic and family violence services around South Australia remain open to support families experiencing and/or escaping violence. There may be variations on how support is provided, such as service delivery provided over the phone rather than face-to-face, however this may change from service to service, and may change over time based on updated medical advice from authorities.
To find and contact your nearest service, visit Ask Izzy and follow the prompts to find your local relevant service based on your situation and needs.
Support and advice remains available 24/7 to all South Australians experiencing domestic and family violence via the Domestic Violence Crisis Line on 1800 800 098. The national hotline for domestic, family and sexual assault counselling, 1800 RESPECT, is also available to call 24/7. However, we advise that callers may experience long wait times and be required to leave a confidential call-back request due to increased calls. You can also access free online support from 1800RESPECT from their 24/7 online chat service.
Domestic violence crisis accommodation and transitional housing may also be under increased demand. If you would like to assist during this difficult time, we encourage members of the public to donate online to their local service. You can also check their website and/or social media to see whether they are accepting donations of food, hygiene products or other essential items. Please avoid calling their phone number to keep the lines open for those seeking assistance.
If you are concerned for yourself, or a friend or family member in isolation, please remember that there are ways to remain supported and connected.
If you are experiencing violence, you can access support, including safety planning, over the phone. If you’re in South Australia, please call 1800 800 098 or 1800 RESPECT nation-wide for support, counselling and referral to further services and programs that can help.
If you are in immediate danger, please call SAPOL on 000.
Those experiencing violence are often already isolated from their friends, family and support networks by their abuser. If you’re concerned about a friend or family member, continuing to reach out without judgement can help them feel supported and less alone.
We will be updating this page regularly with further resources for domestic violence services and those impacted by violence, so please check back regularly for more information as it comes to light.
We will also be updating our social media channels on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, as well as to our e-newsletter.
For any media inquiries, please contact 0436 816 208 or contact@embolden.org.au. Thank you and wishing you all wellness and safety 💛
Resources for domestic and family violence workers
- Using technology to communicate with survivors during a public health crisis
- Best practices when using mobile devices for service delivery
- How to operate as a remote service during a public health crisis
- Frontline services’ best practice guide: employee smartphones and tablets
- Frontline Services’ Best Practice Guide: Texting with Survivors
COVID-19 resources in other languages
The Australian Government Department of Home Affairs has released Coronavirus (COVID-19) fact sheets in a range of languages including:
These fact sheets include information on:
- close contact with confirmed cases
- community return
- FAQ’s
- identifying symptoms
- isolation guidance
- residential care services
- early childhood centres
- social distancing
View all resources on the Settlement Council of Australia’s (SCoA) website by clicking here.