Orana House COVID-19 Response
Women’s refuges and family and domestic violence services have been identified as essential services to be maintained during the pandemic wherever possible. As Western Australia addresses the COVID-19 coronavirus, Orana House is taking a number of measures to reduce the impact on workers, clients, and the community.
We are very concerned about the impact of self-isolation and social distancing on those experiencing family and domestic violence. Family and domestic violence are about control and abuse. Research and recent history in other countries have shown that the social isolation that may come as a result of COVID-19 could increase the risk of violence and abuse for those in an unsafe situation. Concern and anxiety created by people losing their jobs and subsequent income, as well as having children home from school for long periods, is further compounded by being unable to access their usual forms of relaxation, stress relief and entertainment, in the form of a team-sport, gym, cinema, and social gatherings.
It is critical during periods of social distancing that those impacted by domestic and family violence know that support is available. Therefore, we are urging friends, family, neighbours, and colleagues with any concerns to continue to reach out and offer support to women they think may be at risk and link them in with appropriate support and services. Similarly, we hope that perpetrators of violence and abuse will think about their behaviour and choose to reach out for help and support.
We endeavour to ensure Orana House remains open and accessible throughout this challenging time, so if you are in the City of Bayswater or surrounding suburbs and you need support or information about family and domestic violence, or you are worried about your safety, please contact us on 9370 4544.
If you live further afield, please contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) for assistance. The service is free, confidential and available 24/7.
Other helpful services and contacts include: (*button to link to useful numbers page)
Police 131 444 or 000 for emergencies.
Crisis Care Help Line (08) 9223 1111 or 1800 199 008 – available 24 hours a day
Entrypoint Perth (08) 6496 0001 or 1800 124 684 – for crisis accommodation.
Women’s Domestic Violence Helpline (08) 9223 1188
Men’s Domestic Violence Helpline (08) 92231199
Kids Helpline 1800 551 800
Lifeline – 13 11 14 Crisis Support & Suicide Prevention – available 24 hours a day
Mental Health Emergency Response Line 1300 555 788 (Metro) or 1800 676 822 (Peel) or 1800 552 002 (Country/Rural link)
Alcohol and Drug Support Line 08 9442 5000 or 1800 198 024 (Country Toll-Free)