Parenting can be difficult. Sometimes gathering the strength to overcome the barriers you are facing is just that bit too far. Having support around you in these moments can provide the hope and guidance that’s needed to enact change.
Ethal* is a survivor of family violence. As an Aboriginal mother of three children, the stress and strain of her home environment took its toll.
In her darkest time, she turned to alcohol, and consequently, her relationship with her children suffered.
Her children’s medical needs were not being addressed, and this began to affect their schooling, particularly their attendance.
When their school showed concern, Ethal pulled away. She refused to engage because she felt judged. With a lack of communication from a lack of clarity, it was her children that were really affected.
It was at this time when an Aboriginal Case Manager and Family Support worker met Ethal, via the Pilbara Support Network.
The Pilbara Support Network is a local area network of community services who offer support to families in North Western Australia.
With the support of an early intervention family support program, Ethal’s needs began to be addressed. She had someone to listen to her, and she could finally address the trauma of her abuse.
She was supported in her home, where she was helped to practice routines for her and her children. When they were established, they created stability.
Ethal was also able to work with the school to have the same boundaries and routines put in place there.
Ethal was also able to connect to her culture. When she had the opportunity to go bush, she found connecting to country to be healing. This was a part of her partaking in both internal and external cultural awareness, led by her case manager.
Ethal is now far more confident in her abilities as a mother and a person.
Providing women with a space to feel safe where they can feel heard, establish positive connections and recover from family violence is crucial, as we bring light to the experiences of those affected.
This year, MacKillop marched proudly alongside our McAuley Community Services for Women colleagues in the Walk Against Family Violence. We support a world where everyone is safe, equal and respected.
With the disproportionate violence faced by Aboriginal women and people, including from the system, it is vital that spaces like this exist so the message can be heard.
*Name changed to protect privacy
