WIMMERA residents from different walks of life banded together on Friday to raise awareness of violence against women and children.
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More than 200 people participated in Horsham’s annual White Ribbon Walk Against Violence.
For some, the issue was closer to home than others.
Members of a Grampians Community Health domestic violence support group described the walk as empowering.
Support group member Shirley Jackson said it was important for victims to speak up.
‘‘This is our way of saying we’re still fighting and working hard to overcome our issues,’’ she said.
Mandy Wallis said some members of the support group did not feel comfortable participating.
‘‘A few weren’t game to come because they didn’t want to be seen,’’ she said.
Mrs Wallis said the women’s empowerment support group met on the third Friday of each month.
‘‘The first week we sat around and told our stories,’’ she said.
‘‘There were tears like you wouldn’t believe.
‘‘It felt so good to know we’re not alone.
‘‘We can tell our stories, in confidence, to people who will listen.’’
Mrs Wallis said family violence was committed in a number of forms.
‘‘Although we’re all affected, it’s in different ways,’’ she said.
‘‘Some of us are dealing with physical violence, while others have been abused emotionally or financially.’’
Mrs Wallis said the group members also shared coping mechanisms and first-hand knowledge of topics such as legal procedures.
She said women affected by family violence could call Grampians Community Health reception on 53621200 for more information about the support group.