Media Release
21 April, 2020
Operation Ribbon will help keep family violence perpetrators in sight during COVID-19
No to Violence, the peak body delivering safe and effective interventions for Australian men using family violence and provider of the Men’s Referral Service, welcomes today’s announcement of Operation Ribbon by Victoria Police.
Chief Executive of No to Violence, Jacqui Watt, says: “An essential part of preventing and responding to family violence will be working with the people using it. No to Violence will continue its strong relationship with Victoria Police and the Victorian Government to address family violence at its source.
“One hundred and six high risk offenders have been checked on directly by specialist police officers since the operation commenced less than a week ago. Of those, 13 have been remanded in custody. It means these offenders are being kept in sight.
“Our most recent data shows that we’ve experienced a big jump in police referrals to our Men’s Referral Service Helpline (1300 766 491) since Stage 3 restrictions commenced.
“Whilst the COVID-19 pandemic does not make someone use family violence, it can escalate and increase the frequency. We aim to keep women safe by working with men to address the causes of their violence.
“COVID19 is not an excuse for violence. If you are using violence, or feel like you are going to, you should call the confidential Men’s Referral Service at 1800 766 491 or talk to us online at www.ntv.org.au. If you are a person experiencing family violence, help is available at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or safe steps (1800 015 188). ”
Source: No to Violence.
