Forum will help shine a light on domestic violence plight

Reaching out to the community to provide support to those affected by domestic violence is the focus of a forum being held at the Capel Public Library next week.

Library services manager Cheryl Smith said the Capel Shire Council was approached by a community member after the success of the ice forum it hosted in June.

“Domestic violence is on the rise and if we can bring the issue to the forefront in the community and highlight ways of getting help, we can make a difference,” she said.

“Drug use and domestic violence can go hand in hand and we are aware there are drug issues in the community, so hopefully the forum will be an opportunity for people to seek the help they need.”

Waratah women’s intervention service, Mates Mens Support Group, Bunbury police and Victim Support Service will do presentations at the forum to highlight the role they play in the community in supporting victims of domestic violence.

Council community development officer Donna Sims said a resident from Capel contacted the council because she was concerned about domestic violence in Capel.

“There is no service provision or support agencies situated in Capel for people experiencing domestic violence, so we felt it was important to hold a forum to inform residents of the support services available,” she said.

The Community Forum on Domestic Violence will be held at the Capel Library on August 11 from 5.30pm.