Since the Central Coast NSW has one of the highest rates of DFV in NSW, it is essential that we implement early intervention programs that will do the most good and have a lasting effect. The Safe from the Start training program has demonstrated a strong impact on the community to date as it has been rolled out targeting childcare worker, school counsellors, school family liaison officers and Aboriginal Liaison officers that previously have had little to no training in identifying trauma resulting from domestic and family violence in children, with a focus on children in the 0 to 5 year age bracket. Childcare centres and schools are becoming pivotal in intervening early by connecting specialised support to children and their families before the crises occurs. The effects of family and domestic violence on children are well documented, including:

·   research findings on the incidence and impact on children who have witnessed/experienced family or domestic violence. 

·   how to use activity-based-play utilising the Resource Tool Kit to reduce the impact of trauma on the brain development of children.

The idea of targeting childcare centre staff, school counsellors, school family liaison officers, community service workers and Aboriginal Liaison officers ensures that ‘no child is left behind’ while linking them with relevant specialist services before a crisis and supporting the staff that care for the children to ensure nurturing care in tumultuous circumstances.

Each program costs $1000 for one day of training for 25 workers. We are aiming to run 20 such training sessions across the LGA, potentially reaching 250 or more workers who will then each go on to intereact with hundreds of children throughout their careers. We need your suppport to run these training sessions across the coast. Every little bit helps us towards addressing this crisis, so please give what you can and tell your family and friends!