The Western Region Centre Against Sexual Assault (WestCASA) are offering support for people distressed by the recent allegations of sexual assault in childcare centres in Melbourne’s west.
WestCASA CEO Annette Vickery said people traumatised by the event have a range of supports available including brief intervention counselling or further information to support their needs.
“As always, WestCASA is here for our community across the west Metro,” Ms Vickery said.
“If you or someone you know are traumatised by this event we can support you with through crisis support (single session), brief intervention (1-4 sessions) and longer term counselling when needed, to process these feelings with a focus on safety and stabilisation.
“This cohort includes family members of potential victim-survivors, victim-survivors themselves 12 years and over and other community members who are impacted by this event.
“Additionally, this event may have raised issues for people, triggered memories of previous trauma and brought out a need for emotional support.
“This is our area of expertise and we serve the communities of west metro Melbourne,” Ms Vickery said.
WestCASA’s direct line from 9am-5pm on weekdays is 9216 0444 or visit westcasa.org.au.
FURTHER SUPPORTS:
1800 RESPECT can provide you with support if you are experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family and sexual violence.
Sexual Assault Crisis Line (SACL) on 1800 806 292 a state-wide (Victoria), after-hours, confidential telephone service for people who have experienced both past and recent sexual assault. SACL operates between 5pm to 9am on weeknights and throughout weekends and public holidays.
Directly impacted families:
Families who may have been directly impacted by the crisis can contact a dedicated advice line on 1800 791 241, 7 days a week, 8am – 9pm weekdays and 8am – 5pm on weekends.
A dedicated website is also available: https://www.vic.gov.au/childcare-centres-investigation.
