Hairdressers across the Hunter will receive domestic violence awareness training to ensure they’re better
prepared if a client discloses abuse when attending their salon.
The training work shops will be conducted across five regions in NSW over the coming months, including the Hunter, South Coast, Central Coast, Albury and Wagga Wagga.
Attorney
General and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Mark Speakman said
the training, would help ensure victims were referred to support services if needed.
“Hairdressers
are valuable members of our communities who develop meaningful relationships
with their clients, particularly if they’ve worked with them for many years,”
Mr Speakman said.
“This
training is about empowering hairdressers with information to best ensure that
they are equipped to recognize domestic violence, manage any disclosures from
customers, and most importantly, support the victim to get the help they need."
“Salon
professionals are also a female dominated workforce, so we’re confident this
training can help with broader community awareness too, given the tragically
disproportionate impact of domestic and family violence on women and children.”
Legal
Aid NSW CEO Brendan Thomas said co-ordinating a program such as this was an innovative way of engaging with people needing legal support.
“The
easier it becomes for women and children to gain the full protection of the
law, the greater progress we will make in eradicating violence in families,” Mr
Thomas said.
Australian
Hairdressing Council CEO Sandy Chong said hairdressers often listen to the
problems of their clients and offer a sympathetic ear.
“It
comes with the job, so the workshops can help them know what to do if a client
does disclose to them that they are experiencing domestic violence,” Ms Chong
said.
“We
encourage hairdressers to take up the opportunity to attend these workshops.”
