The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) is proudly supporting the Luke Batty Foundation as a founding partner of the Never Alone campaign against domestic violence.
ANMF Federal Secretary Lee Thomas joins with Australian of the Year Rosie Batty to pay tribute to the survivors of family violence and is asking nurses and midwives to help support the campaign at www.neveralone.com.au.
“Nurses and midwives see family violence first hand, in emergency departments, community clinics and when they visit women’s homes,” Ms Thomas said.
“And our members who are predominately women, also experience family violence, so it’s time we build a movement that lets all victims know that they are never alone”.
ANMF Federal Vice President, Maree Burgess, a maternal and child health nurse of more than 30 years’ experience, said domestic violence was the “conversation you need to have with every woman.”
“In my experience, the community has been reluctant to talk about domestic violence. As Rosie Batty has highlighted, it doesn’t matter where you live, what job you have, or your background, domestic violence can happen to anyone, she said.
“Nurses and midwives are now talking with women about domestic violence. We know the incidence is very high and it’s our job to let them know that we are here for them to provide support and referral to appropriate community based services.”
Rosie Batty, who established the Luke Batty Foundation with the aim of raising funds to support women and children affected by family violence, said she welcomed the support of the ANMF.
“Family violence is every Australian’s business. But nurses are on the frontline. It means a great deal to me to have the ANMF as one of our partners,” she said.
“The women and children who have experienced family violence are often alone. My vision is that Luke’s memory will help give a voice to victims and drive change so that they are supported and never ever alone.