Supporter Autumn 2024
Working together to support a family in need
A collaboration between SA Police, a local Anglican parish, and AnglicareSA saved a family fleeing domestic violence from homelessness at Christmas. When Rachel (name changed to protect identity) was threatened with murder by her partner, she took her four children and pet dog and fled the family home. With nowhere else to go, the family moved into a caravan park, spending all of Rachel’s savings on the temporary accommodation over several weeks. They were unable to access homelessness supports due to being assessed as ‘housed’ in the caravan park, despite their precarious financial situation. Concerned for the family’s safety – the partner had been remanded in custody but could possibly be released on bail at any time – SA Police referred the family to a local Anglican parish worker. The parish worker contacted AnglicareSA’s Manager of Mission and Anglican Community Engagement, Ben Falcon for assistance. Ben’s first thought was to contact AnglicareSA’s Turning Point program, which provides a fully-furnished home for three months with wraparound supports to help families like Rachel’s to stabilise and move on to secure, permanent housing. “Unfortunately, Turning Point was at capacity, so we couldn’t support the family through that program,” said Ben. Luckily, Ben was aware of an Anglican rectory that was becoming vacant and contacted the priest. “The priest conferred with the parish council, and they made the rectory available to the family for long-term rental at the lowest end of the rent range.
Fleeing domestic violence, Rachel and her children lived in a caravan park
organisations like AnglicareSA can’t accommodate everyone in need.” AnglicareSA is an accredited White Ribbon Australia organisation, committed to working to end violence against women and children. We support our employees who are affected by domestic and family violence, as well as victim survivors in the broader South Australian community. Family and domestic violence support 1800 Respect national helpline 1800 737 732 Women’s Crisis Line 1800 811 811 Men’s referral service 1300 766 491
“AnglicareSA’s Quickest Warmth program then swung into action, providing bedding, kitchen and bathroom supplies, and furniture.” The family continues to be supported by a specialist domestic violence social worker employed by the parish. Ben said Rachel’s story demonstrated what could be achieved through a partnership approach to caring for people in the community. “With SA Police, the Anglican parishes, and AnglicareSA working together, we were able to support this family into a safe home and on track to a stable future. “There of course won’t always be a rectory home available. The demand for services supporting domestic violence victim survivors, compounded by a shortfall in funding and resources, and a housing crisis, means
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