Safe house opened

01/Dec/2009

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Jeremy Garlett (senior APLO), Senior Sergeant David Bryson, Naka Ikeda (domestic violence advocate) and Senior Constable Judi Walton.

A GROWING need for emergency accommodation to house victims of domestic violence and their children prompted several agencies to join forces and open a safe house.

South East Metropolitan District Police, Department of Child Protection and the Department of Housing signed a memorandum of understanding last month to commence the DV Safe House pilot program, utilising a safe house for victims of domestic violence.

Belmont Police Station officer-in-charge David Bryson said the house would give immediate respite and accommodation to victims and their children after hours.

“The concept was borne from an idea over morning coffee by the domestic violence officers stationed at Belmont police station,” Snr Sgt Bryson said.

Police had spent a “considerable” amount of time trying to find victims suitable accommodation,” he added.

The program will service Kensington, Cannington, Canning Vale and Belmont police sub districts and would be reviewed every three months.