Community urged to ‘RizeUp’ for children this National Child Protection Week:

The act of a child witnessing domestic violence is now recognised as a form of abuse in and of itself, and with more than half of women experiencing domestic violence having children in their care[1], its clear immediate action needs to be taken. 

Exposure to violence can greatly impact a child’s attitude towards relationships and violence, as well as behavioural, cognitive and emotional functioning[2].

In support of National Child Protection Week from September 1-7, community-driven organisation, RizeUp Australia, is encouraging the community to have open conversations about the issue of domestic and family violence and learn how they can provide positive opportunities for some of Australia’s most vulnerable kids.

The charity has recently launched its Youth Enrichment Support Solutions (YESS) program to provide much-needed support for children and their mothers who have fled from a life of violence. The program provides essentials for children starting new schools including school uniforms and equipment, funding for camps or other educational extra-curricular activities through generous donations from the community. 

CEO and Founder of RizeUp Australia, Nicolle Edwards, says children who have witnessed, or experienced domestic violence shouldn’t be disadvantaged further but instead supported through such difficult times.

“We know that children who have been exposed to a home of violence that this can become predictors of future behaviour, which is why it’s so important, as a community, to provide opportunities for our young generation to lead positive lives.

“More often than not, we see mothers fleeing their homes with nothing but the clothes on their back, and when you bring children into the equation, who are forced to move schools, there’s often very little these parents can provide or support. The development of the YESS program is to ease the burden that these mums go through,” explained Mrs Edwards.

More than 1,500 Queensland children have been supported thanks to the pioneering work of the charity, but Mrs Edward believes more can be done.

“We once helped a family whose mother said the only uniform that could be provided to her little girl was the paint stained uniform from sick bay – no child should have to go through this, and it continues to solidify why we do the work we do. We want to give the children of families fleeing violence the same opportunity as their peers when it comes to schooling,” continued Mrs Edwards.

“Opportunity is not a privilege and this National Child Protection Week; I encourage the community to look deep at the role they can play in making a positive difference to Australian women and children. Domestic violence is a community issue and one we need to defeat together.

“We look forward to a day when domestic and family violence is eradicated. In our journey to this, we will continue to aid these women and children with practical support and educating the wider community on how they can change the ending for these vulnerable families.

Established in 2015, RizeUp seeks to drive awareness of domestic violence within society, while working with front-line agencies, refuge and specialist domestic violence services to deliver life-changing and practical support. The provision of safe, welcoming and practical homes gives the families affected the hope, empowerment and ability to move on to a life free from violence.

To support the YESS program, or learn more about RizeUp, please visit https://www.facebook.com/RizeUpAustralia/.