b'Walking to end violence.For many of us, one unexpected benefit of the COVID-19 pandemicwas bringing families, children and partners closer.Through hours of board games, walking theGiving people a safe future.dog and home-cooked meals, many of us became re-acquainted with our loved ones.Peggys *life, safety and freedom have been These past two years may have been the most timecompromised due to intimate partner violence.many of us have spent together. She applied for the Escaping Violence Payment But sadly, statistics paint a darker picture for (EVP) program, seeking support after a relationship some families. where intimate partner violence was present.Evidence suggests that gender-based and familyIt is vital Peggy has safety planning and security violence has dramatically increased throughoutto protect her at home. She is a woman in her 60s, the pandemic. living remotely with no immediate support.On Friday 25 thNovember, Uniting will participate Peggy used the EVP package, comprised of up to in the annual Walk Against Family Violence. $5000 in cash, goods and services, to establish a home safe from violence. For Peggy this included During this event, staff, volunteers and supportershaving her car serviced and securing a storage unit.will stand collectively as a community to advocateFinancial insecurity is one of the main barriers for victims of family and gender-based violence. preventing people from leaving a violent partner. Falling on the International Day for the EliminationIn some cases, it is a contributing factor to why of Violence Against Women, this walk marks Daysome are forced to return to an abusive partner.1 of the 16 Days of Activism. An internationalThe Escaping Violence Payment program is campaign started by activists at the inauguraldesigned to give people choice and control over Womens Global Leadership Institute in 1991. what they need, when they need it.You also may wish to spread the word that family* This is a true story about a real person. Some details such as names violence and violence against women is never okay.have been changed to respect the wishes of the person featured.Our family violence services Find out moreSupporter Newsletter Spring 2022 5'