The “StoP – districts without partner violence” project, which has been running in Wels-Neustadt for more than a year, is now being extended to the Pernau district. It primarily aims to prevent violence with the help of neighbours. Violence against women, children and partner violence mostly happens within one’s own four walls. Even if the neighborhood hears something, there is often silence because one does not want to interfere in the private lives of others. This is exactly where the prevention project comes in. The aim is that violence is not simply accepted, but that the neighbors take action. For example, by simply addressing those affected and offering them help, drawing their attention to professional support offers or by alerting the police immediately in an acute violent situation.
Project manager in Wels is social worker Simone Heinz- Jahraus. For example, she invites her three colleagues to women’s tables, distributes flyers in front of shops or residential complexes and thus easily gets into conversation with people. “We want to encourage people not to look the other way. With 26 femicides this year and the increasing intensity of violence, you can’t say: Violence is none of my business,” says Heinz-Jahraus.
men against violence
The first men’s table starts on Monday in Neustadt. Together we consider what each individual can do to combat domestic violence and learn more about methods of civil courage against violence. Everyone is welcome, such as multipliers who are involved professionally and men who want to work to raise awareness of the topic, or who simply want to learn more about violence prevention. It takes place every 14 days on Mondays in the Herz-Jesu parish at Flotzingerplatz 5 (Caritas room), the women’s table every 14 days on Tuesdays in the old people’s home at Flurgasse 40.
The offer is currently being set up in Pernau and cooperation partners are being sought. “At the ’16 Days Against Violence Against Women’ in November and December we will have a greater public presence,” announces Heinz-Yearus.
There are currently three StoP locations (Linz, Wels, Perg) in Upper Austria. A few days ago, the project was awarded the Bank Austria Social Prize and 6,000 euros after a public vote.
Attention is also drawn to the topic with posters and on social media channels with well-known personalities who call for non-violent coexistence. Public supporter is also deputy governor and women’s officer Christine Haberlander (VP). “Society must be sensitized, violence against women and children affects us all. Everyone can make a contribution to preventing violence,” emphasizes Haberlander.
Source: Nachrichten
