Dandenong Ranges Domestic Violence Peer Support Group

This project will implement the internationally-recognised Intentional Peer Support (IPS) framework into a peer support group for women, recently established, who have experienced domestic violence; formalise a therapeutic trauma-informed children's play program; and develop a secure, online forum.

This social group intentionally reconnects women, often isolated by the impacts of DV, with each other and their local community, offering practical supports, such as meals and food, whilst empowering them to develop secure attachments with their children - which provides an important buffer against intergenerational cycles of domestic violence. Crucially, this support is free of charge for women and their children.

The Yarra Ranges has the second highest rate of DV in Melbourne's eastern metropolitan region yet no DV-specific services exist locally. Additionally, women and their children require ongoing support far beyond the scope of crisis organisations. Complex trauma has long-term impact on emotional and physical health impeding the ability of women and their children to connect and flourish.

When shared lived experiences of DV are understood as a societal issue rather than a personal failing women feel connected to each other and integral to their local community which is speaking up about violence against women. Social change starts with connection.