FAMILY violence safe houses face the crunch due to housing shortage.
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A lack of housing has been made worse as the need to place people in housing has increased over the past 12 months.
"Every day we place people right across the Wimmera who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in suitable temporary, emergency or long-term housing - this includes people who are escaping family violence," Uniting Senior Manager Homelessness, Adam Liversage said.
"During 2021, there was a significant increase in the number of locals we provided with housing or homelessness support - more than 25 per cent higher than our 2020 figures."
IN OTHER NEWS:
Uniting is the lead provider of a program called the Escaping Violence Program which is being funded by the Federal Government.
This program offers support for people 18+ who have recently experienced family violence, have a changed living situation and are experiencing financial stress.
This program is financial assistance of up to $5000 which includes $1500 to buy essentials and money to hire removalists.
"There is a growing housing shortage in many regional areas, including the Wimmera, which is making it more challenging to find suitable accommodation for people in need," Mr Liversage said.
"We work closely with a range of other agencies, including police, to prioritise finding immediate safe and secure housing for anyone escaping family violence while also providing them with additional wrap around support which is able to help address their immediate needs, such as food and clothing."
Member for Lowan and opposition Minister for Prevention for Family Violence Emma Kealy said the current housing situation for family violence survivors isn't good enough.
"The state government has taken far too long to address the enduring housing crisis for women and children seeking to escape family violence, leaving women homeless or left to fend for themselves and their children in violent homes," she said.
"It's imperative the state government work collaboratively with the federal government to finally address the inequities in access to a safe haven for women and children where family violence threatens their everyday life."
If you are in a situation of danger now, please call 000. If you are experiencing family violence and need immediate support or advice, call 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 and they will let you know what you can do.
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