Two years ago a work colleague lost her life. Which is a really stupid thing to say. She didn’t lose it at all. Her husband killed her. He took her life. He stabbed her. She died.
Her children have had to deal with this, their families and friends and then people like me.
I had a drink with her the night before. There was nothing I can remember that set any alarm bells off at the time. In hindsight there are lots of “if only” and “I wish”.
The impact of family violence is much broader than family. It has an impact on all in our community.
Today, we celebrated another year of great work at my work. We acknowledged the important work that our teams do in family violence and men’s behavioural programs. They make a difference to the lives of the people they work with.
It’s been a tough year. While government change directions and shift funding, the need of people doesn’t change. It’s still there. We struggle to reach as many people as we would like to, the funding just isn’t there.
There is a great need in our community, and we can barely cope with the demand.
My heart breaks at the knowledge that we don’t have the resources to help. My heart breaks that people are suffering and there is nothing that I can do.
When we asked today as part of an activity, “Why do you work here?” the answer was either “Because I want to make a difference” or “I want to help others”
As I listened today to the accolades of special mentions for our outstanding stars, I reflected on the work that my colleagues do. I reflect on the senseless death of Cathy. I know we need to do more.
I feel proud to work with such a dedicated group who strive to make a difference.
We have the evidence that the work we do makes a difference – you can help us. You may not be able to fund the shortfall left by the changing funding models of government, if a few of us can help perhaps we can make a shift.
