SPEAK Up Now Stop Domestic and Family Violence is bringing a free eight-week support program to Maleny for women who have experienced domestic and family violence or sexual assault.
The Shark Cage® Program will run from September 11 to October 30 at the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre, providing a trauma-informed group environment designed to help women recognise unsafe behaviours, identify respectful relationships, strengthen personal boundaries and rebuild their sense of self and rights.
The initiative has been supported by Sunshine Coast Council grant funding, which enabled two local volunteers to complete accredited facilitator training.
Facilitators Christine and Val will donate their time to deliver the program, helping ensure women across the Hinterland can access support closer to home. Speak Up Now spokesperson Val France said transport, financial pressures and the size of coastal groups could create barriers for Hinterland women seeking support.
“Part of that commitment is making sure women in Maleny, and the Hinterland, have access to healing, empowerment and community as soon as they are ready to engage in a program such as Shark Cage®,” she said.
The program is open to women aged 18 and over who have experienced domestic and family violence or sexual assault.
Contact Christine on 0493 640 423.
