Desert Blue Connect, working alongside the CRE Reference group, have been instrumental in developing and introducing the Community, Respect, & Equality (CRE) Agreement for organisations and businesses in Geraldton to collectively say that #ViolenceIsNEVEROk in our community. The CRE Agreement requires organisations and businesses to endorse the CRE Agreed Values and Codes of Behaviour and commit to actions in the workplace to prevent family violence. It is now available for organisations and businesses to read, endorse and take action.

“We are encouraging managers and employees of organisations to read the new CRE Agreement online and see what is involved”, said Daphne White, Executive Manager Operations at Desert Blue Connect.

“There are some really easy and practical actions that workplaces can do straightaway such as use of the promotional logos and hashtags that say no to violence. Desert Blue Connect regularly put on activities that promote a safe community, both in our workplace and in the community, so any workplace can also do it,” she said.

Desert Blue Connect is a non-profit organisation that provide specialist family violence services. Each year the organisation holds a peaceful community march to raise awareness of family violence and sexual assault and promote respectful relationships. This year’s March Against Violence (MAV) is coming up and will be held on White Ribbon Day, Friday 23rd November 2018 at the Geraldton Multipurpose Centre, Stow Gardens. It commences at 9am with guest speakers prior to the march commencing. Everyone from the community is invited to come and join the event.

*March Against Violence organisers, Sarah and Meg preparing resources for the event*

Mid West-Gascoyne District Superintendent Mike Bell is a strong supporter of the MAV event and a CRE Champion. He is encouraging everyone to attend and raise awareness of the impacts family violence has on the community.

“Aside from the adverse impact family violence has on the victim and their family and friends, it also causes a significant economic and social detriment to the wider community”, said District Superintendent Mike Bell.

“Preventing family violence in our community should be a priority for everyone and this can commence with the strengthening of positive, equal and respectful relations between all community members.”

For further information on the MAV please contact Desert Blue Connect, 25 Chapman Road, Geraldton, phone 08 9964 2742 or visit www.desertblueconnect.org.au

For more information on the CRE Agreement, please visit the Community, Respect, and Equality website at https://www.communityrespectandequality.com.au