Free domestic violence support now available to Geraldton and Mid West residents until 10pm

A regional telephone counselling service has made its helpline available for longer to help Mid West residents affected by family and domestic violence.

Callers can now speak to a DVassist councillor from 10am until 10pm Monday to Friday.

Chief executive Esther Schwald said evenings were typically the busiest times for helplines in WA.

“This is especially true for people seeking support for family and domestic violence who may find the only opportunity to speak on the phone is when they are preparing dinner, and the kids are occupied, or after 8pm, when most of the family is in front of the television or sleeping,” she said.

“It’s often the time of day when people living with violence experience the most worry and anxiety, are struggling to sleep or trying to mentally recover.”

Ms Schwald said the volume of calls and website traffic had grown since DVassist launched in October.

“As word about our services spread through regional communities, more and more people are reaching out,” she said.

Ms Schwald said anyone could call DVassist for a one-off conversation or multiple sessions.

“Whether it’s you or someone you love who is experiencing family or domestic violence, we can talk to you no matter where you are or what you are doing,” she said.

Call 1800 080 083 to access the free service.