Domestic Violence Safe Phones donated to almost 100 people in need across Mid-West-Gascoyne region

Almost 100 mobile devices have been handed out to people in domestic violence relationships in the Mid West-Gascoyne since local police began offering them last year, keeping those in need connected to services. Out of 95 phones handed out to domestic violence victims, 37 have been in Geraldton including 18 issued by frontline police and 19 provided to support organisations. The other 58 phones have been distributed to victims around the district, including Carnarvon, Meekatharra, Mt Magnet and Jurien Bay. Geraldton police began the program DV Safe Phones at the beginning of last year, allowing those experiencing domestic violence to apply for mobile phones, so they can maintain contact with support agencies. Mid West-Gascoyne family violence co-ordinator Sgt Chad Butler-Henderson said police throughout the district have the power to issue devices directly, at the scene of critical incidents, ensuring victims have a direct link to emergency and support services. “Often we see that the mobile phone is the first item destroyed in a family violence incident,” he said. “The biggest breakdown in our referrals is the support services not being able to contact victims of crime.” Geraldton police have placed an order for another 10 mobile phones and are waiting for them to arrive. 1800RESPECT 1800 737 732