DV Prevention, Awareness and Education

Sadly, the last two years of COVID-19 resulted in more incidents of domestic violence in the Hills, Hawkesbury and Parramatta local government areas. DV Prevention

CHRG (Castle Hill RSL Group), has worked with local domestic violence support and prevention partners for several years and recognises the importance of providing better outcomes for victims/ survivors and effecting long-lasting change.

Andy Abey, Head of Corporate Affairs for CHRG said: “We believe this can be achieved through continued support of our DV prevention partners and most importantly, via education and awareness in our children and youth.”

The group supports local shelter organisations and support groups such as the Lisa Harnum Foundation, The Sanctuary and Youth Rezolutions, each year.

This year, in addition, CHRG donated places on the Love Bites Training Program (delivered by NAPCAN – the National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect), to the Hills, Hawkesbury and Parramatta local area commands to support the training of 40 police officers in the program.

“The aim of this program was to support additional training of police who are then better equipped to deal with situations involving youth, which then enables them to run bespoke programs at local schools as educated facilitators,” said Andy.

“School programming is focussed on educating youth about ‘respectful relationships’ with the hope of providing information and education that prevents young people becoming involved in domestic violence as a victim or an offender.

CHRG is committed to raising domestic violence prevention awareness and supporting local organisations that provide pathways to women and families.

Additionally, the group is in the planning phases of donating another round of ‘Love Bites’ training to more local area police officers, as we believe that educating our children and youth, is the first step in breaking the cycle of abuse.”

Inspector Chris Laird from The Hills Police Area Command said officers who undertook the Love Bites program benefited from it.

“The police are very grateful for the generous donation of the Love Bites training. It was for the North West Sydney Commands and really gave a good understanding of dealing with young people. The police were already using the knowledge gained in their day-to-day working roles.”

Domestic Violence speaks many languages, has many colours and lives in many communities.

If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out for it.
• The Lisa Harnum Foundation: 1300 732 848
• The Sanctuary: 9680 2653
• Youth Rezolutions: 9680 1201
• The 24-hour DV hotline is 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).