The TCWR clients are predominantly Aboriginal – (98%) many of whom have been child clients themselves and or their mothers and grandmothers have been victims of Violence.

Ongoing exposure of children to Violence perpetuates the intergenerational cycle of Violence and abuse that has become normalized here in the Barkly Region. The demographics of this community is that we have 25% of our population under the age of 17 – and growing fast. In the context of the Refuge most child clients have been witness to Domestic and Family Violence and it has become all to evident that to change the cycle we must have workers who are dedicated, trained and prepared to work intensively with these clients and their family to provide better support and services tailored to their needs.

This work is not easy and requires intensive support to mothers to ensure that children overcome the barriers of trauma, itinerant lifestyles, neglected medical needs, poor diet and hygiene and disengagement with education. On top of this many children may have developmental and behavioural issues caused by exposure to violence, FASD and general lack of bonding and trusting relationships from birth.

The Refuge has a policy of employing local indigenous workers who can provide support at the Refuge or through an outreach approach and have a wealth of local community knowledge and established networks.

We provide comprehensive (wrap around) trauma informed case management, counselling, support and referrals for our clients to meet their complex needs. ER Funding is used for clients in crisis and is often required for women and children to meet their basic needs for food and power – our most common requests. It is also used for transport (bus tickets) to relocate clients to other towns where they may have more support, help them access hostel accommodation or to start a new life away from Violent partners.