Red bench unveiled in show of support to tackle DFV

ALL OVER Australia, red benches are popping up in communities, and the Holy Spirit Anglican Church of Coolum recently unveiled its red bench.  

These symbolic seats are placed in the community to show support for victims of domestic and family violence (DFV) and to raise awareness.  A victim can sit on the bench and call the phone numbers on the bench to receive help, including being picked up and taken to a safe place.  

Holy Spirit Anglican Church Coolum, together with their Ladies Guild, and the Coolum Men’s Shed, held a dedication and unveiling ceremony on Wednesday, March 26, at the site of their bench,h which is located in the grounds of the church at 25 Beach Rd, Coolum Beach.  

Reverend Karen Allen said Holy Spirit is proud to be involved in the prevention of DFV and to raise awareness of this issue.   

“Our aim is for survivors to access our services, feeling safe and secure with our support. 

“The bench is the initiative of our church’s outreach committee, donated by our church Guild and built and installed by the Coolum Men’s Shed.”  

Cr Taylor Bunnag was invited to the unveiling as special guest, and he applauded the initiative.  

“I was grateful to be asked to visit Holy Spirit Church, where we unveiled a red bench to show support and raise awareness for victims of Domestic and Family Violence.  

“During the service, council officer Des, a former police officer, gave a powerful speech and encouraged us all to not be overwhelmed by the size of the problem.” 

Red benches are an initiative of the Red Rose Foundation, who support victims of DFV and raise awareness of the issue.  

Further information can be found via the following – www.redrosefoundation.com.au/red-bench-project 

If this story has raised issues of a serious nature that need immediate attention, please call Lifeline: 13 11 14 or 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 or MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78 or Police on 000.