Domestic violence refers to acts of violence that occur between people who have, or who have had, an intimate relationship, while family violence may occur between family members, including child/parent/elder abuse, or through foster care relationships (Ahuri, 2022). Many women living in violent relationships are confronted with an impossible choice, a choice made more difficult where children are involved; stay and try to survive within a violent relationship or leave. The latter usually results in removing children from school and social networks, effectively rendering them homeless.
Our team works within a feminist and trauma informed framework of empowerment, dignity, and self-determination. This means that every member of the family will be treated individually, and that their story, experiences and choices will be respected. We understand that women and children are experts in their own lives and know what they need to feel safe, secure, and supported. Our staff will consult with families about decisions that impact them, and our practice and policies are guided by the needs and feedback from our families, particularly children.
At Maybanke we provide safe accommodation, specialised support services and housing assistance to women and children fleeing domestic and family violence. We provide safe accommodation set in a confidential and secure location. The space has been intentionally designed to offer warm and welcoming unit-style accommodation for women and children who need immediate and safe housing.
Women and children of all backgrounds are welcomed into refuge while they consider the next steps in their journey. The women and children are supported by family and child specialists to create individual support plans for each member of the family. Our specialist workers provide emotional and practical support to families, including help with safety and wellbeing, housing, parenting and child development, immigration/visa support, NDIS, education and employment, legal assistance and advocacy with other services including a specialist Centrelink worker.