Tamworth Family Support Service prepares to host annual Domestic Violence Candlelight Vigil

For the first time in two years, Tamworth Family Support Service (TFSS) are preparing to host their annual Domestic Violence Candlelight Vigil.

TFSS homelessness and domestic violence manager Lynda Townsend said the event would give the community an opportunity to mourn women and children and spark conversations about ending violence.

"As people we have the right to remain free from violence in our lives, it's fundamental," Ms Townsend said.

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Across the New England region about 3,500 cases of domestic violence have been reported in the past year.

But what's also concerning is the number of cases that go un-reported - a worry that TFSS women and children refuge case manager Natalie Ryan said had become more prevalent during the pandemic.

"We've seen an increase, but it has also been more difficult for them to report," Ms Ryan said

"Because they couldn't get away, it's more risky for them to report it being stuck in the same house."

And it's not just physical violence the community should be on the look out for, Ms Ryan said financial, emotional and even technological abuse - like installing tracking apps on phones and in cars - are just as prevalent.

COVID-19 has also resulted in more children being exposed to domestic violence with lockdowns keeping them from seeking refuge at school or friends houses, Ms Townsend said.

"We know that those adverse events on children have a long term impact. It's about thinking about our next generation," she said.

"Let's get a future for them where these types of conversations don't need to continue."

While the vigil is being held to remember those who have lost their lives, Ms Townsend said she hoped to see the community take a stand.

"There are no innocent bystanders any longer," she said.

"The more the community acknowledges domestic and family violence and the more we take a stand to say 'enough is enough' we're slowly, hopefully, going to win the battle."

To help educate residents on what they can be doing to stop domestic violence, TFSS will be running a pop-up hub for the month of May.

The hub will be located at 17 Fitzroy Street and will host workshops to help break down barriers and encourage conversations about what can be done.

"We're hoping we can bring people together and have just general members of the community pop in and arm them with knowledge," Ms Townsend said.

The candlelight vigil will be held at 6pm at the Domestic Violence Memorial in Bicentennial Park, near the White Street carpark.

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