Southern Cross Care (Vic) Taking a Stand Against Domestic Violence

On 25 November, employees of aged care provider, Southern Cross Care (Vic), will wear white to work to show their support for the White Ribbon Day. 

With female employees accounting for 88 per cent of its total workforce of 1400 people, Southern Cross Care is committed take a stand against domestic violence against women, says its Chief Executive Officer, Jan Horsnell.

“We want to raise awareness that domestic violence against women is totally unacceptable. From statistics released by White Ribbon Australia, it is appalling to know that one in five women experience harassment within the workplace, and one in three women experience physical and/or sexual violence perpetrated by someone known to them.

“At Southern Cross Care, we want to send a strong message that we do not condone any forms of violence against women – be it at work or at home. This goes against our values, and our philosophy of ‘Valuing Every Person’ where we are committed to treating each and every person with the respect and compassion that they deserve,” Ms Horsnell said.

As part of the Organisation’s “Wear White to Work Day” on 25 November, merchandise such as white wristbands and pins will be available for sale at all its office locations across metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria, with proceeds from the sales going to White Ribbon Australia.

Southern Cross Care is currently taking steps to be accredited into the White Ribbon Australia Workplace Accreditation Program. To promote its commitment to the White Ribbon campaign and to encourage others to do likewise, Southern Cross Care is hosting an event on 7 December 2015, which will be attended by its board of directors and management, corporate partners, and other key external stakeholders. The event will also feature a personal story from a high profile domestic violence survivor.

By creating greater awareness among staff and equipping them with a better understanding of the issue, the Organisation hopes to empower its staff members to make informed decisions and to act accordingly when they see violence occur.

“We encourage all staff and volunteers to become advocates. Stand up and speak out to stop the violence against women. Every voice counts.”

Click here to find out more about Southern Cross Care (Vic).