News

Joondalup Health Campus supports domestic violence survivors

May 19, 2020

Staff from Joondalup Health Campus are providing 50 ‘care packs,’ originally donated to them, to a local organisation that supports people affected by domestic violence. 

The decision was made to donate to the Patricia Giles Centre following analysis of data which revealed a 75 per cent increase in referrals of family domestic violence to the hospital’s social work team. 

Deputy Chief Executive Officer Benjamin Irish said the level of donations to the hospital had been enormous and while staff were extremely grateful for the generosity and kindness of the community, many had expressed a desire to see some of these donations directed to people in our community who are truly in need. 

“The frontline staff have really been touched by the thoughtful donations of meals, coffees, treats and more,” he said. “But they are also painfully aware of the many people in our community who have recently become unemployed and those who may be trying to escape domestic violence.” 

“Recently we received a pallet of ‘care packs’ which contains 18 items each ranging from basic food to toiletries – all new – and it was suggested, after the Government confirmed that domestic violence is on the rise, that our local shelter would be the ideal place to send these packs.” 

Social Work co-manager Tracey Negus said she understood that the Patricia Giles Centre recently put a call out to the community via their Facebook page for donations of groceries and was delighted to be able to respond to their call. 

“Of course, before re-gifting, we checked with the people who originally made this donation to our staff and they welcomed the suggestion. We have subsequently contacted the Patricia Giles centre to arrange for delivery and we hope this will help provide for the brave survivors of domestic violence,” she said. 

The Patricia Giles Centre provides a range of services including safe accommodation options and new start kits which contain essential household items, appliances and utensils for those who have fled their homes with nothing, free counselling and support.