Pat Thomas House to target cycle of violence with new grant

The Mandurah domestic violence crisis service will extend its Futures Without Violence program and employ a specialist who will help women break the cycle of family abuse with a $56,000 Lotterywest grant, Ms Mitchell said.

At a presentation ceremony at the centre, she praised the work of Pat Thomas House staff.

“I don't like the thought that we need a Pat Thomas House,” Ms Mitchell said.

“I don’t like the thought the numbers of cases that are coming forward is increasing, but on the other hand, we take that as a positive that at least people are speaking up, coming out and looking to make a difference.

“It is my greatest wish that we can curtail family and domestic violence statistics and we can eventually decrease them. My greatest wish is that you don't need a minister for child protection.”

The funds were accepted by chairperson Jill Mather and executive officer Jill Robinson.

Ms Robinson said the funds would help women make informed choices, provide education to women on the effects of domestic violence on themselves and children, the cycle of violence, generational violence, safety planning and red flags in future relationships.

The project would also look at prevention and education programs that engage the community, generate conversations, and create locally-based solutions to end domestic violence.

The extended Futures Without Violence program would commence in 2017.