Family Life Centre seeks to end the cycle of GBV
Gender-based violence knows no socio-economic, age, race, geographic or religious bounds.
Family Life Centre has launched a gender-based violence department responding to the urgent need to bring about change in a society grappling through the scourge of violent relationships.
Experienced head of the department Bernice Michalec said that the department will begin by offering a women’s empowerment course for victims of violence. “We want to build up women and empower them to take control of their lives. We will provide a safe space to upskill women and allow them to realise their full potential.
“Gender-based violence knows no socio-economic, age, race, geographic or religious bounds. We want to start by helping the victims and later begin men’s groups teaching anger management and removing the patriarchal systems that men have become accustomed to.”
Marketing manager at the centre Bernadette Williams said the new department will seek to break the cycle of violence.
Michalec said it has been difficult to implement the programme within communities due to the danger that victims are exposed to by their abusers.
The course will be run at the centre in Parkwood and attendees will be encouraged to not tell their abusive partners about their participation while they work out an exit strategy.
“Violence and emotional abuse has escalated significantly under lockdown. We want to give help and support to women who feel worthless and powerless.”
Michalec told of a situation where she was the first person that a victim told of their hardships following 32 years of emotional abuse by their partner.
“We want women to walk away with a good CV, know their value and provide a safe space to share their stories.”
Those who are unable to afford the course will be allowed to participate free of charge.
Businesses are encouraged to support the programme by sponsoring a participant for R1 200 for the full, six-session, 18-hour course.
Details: Email intake@familylife.co.za or call 011 788 4784.
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