Escape Bags for Victims of Domestic Abuse

A few weeks ago I came face to face with a victim of domestic violence. She was a stranger who happened to be running down the street, fleeing on a sunny Autumn day after being kicked and punched in her own home by the man she loved. At the same time, I happened to be going about the mundane task of checking the mailbox. We crossed paths.

She was only 25, a student, recently married and new to Australia.

She had visible marks and bruises. Bloodied and distressed. Her phone was being held by husband, who was also circling the neighborhood streets in his car looking for her.

I called both the police and ambulance who arrived quickly. I made her a cup of tea. Ironically, it was a Mr Men Mug, titled 'Mr Perfect'.

Police statement time followed, which was approximately 2 hours. Meanwhile, her abuser was pulled over a few doors down while he was searching for her, and arrested. Much screaming and abuse of the police followed. The neighbors of this quiet street came out of their homes to see what was going on. The victim was taken to hospital and following that, a women's shelter, where her family was to be contacted and an airfare back home arranged.

Since this experience, I've learnt more about the support available to victims of domestic violence. I hope you can read and share this resources and learn something, as I have.

Escabags

This NFO purchases many of the much-needed items that go inside 'Escape Bags' for domestic violence victims fleeing situations like this, including children's storybooks and nappies, teddy bears, sanitary products and other essential and comfort items.

https://www.instagram.com/escabags/

This article explains some of the challenges migrant women face in Australia.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-12-01/migrant-women-face-struggle-to-end-domestic-violence-nightmare/12925848