Our Mission
Our mission at DSDVA is to end domestic and sexual violence in Deaf communities through empowerment, education and services throughout Australia.
Donations
PEACE
EDUCATION
Prevention
SUPPORT
Empowerment
Our History
DSDVA was first thought of in November 2015. After a presentation together at the Deaf mental health conference Melbourne 2015. Our presentation together had spiked up so much passion that we saw the need for such service to provide to Deaf survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
Creating ideas together and meeting in each other’ homes whenever possible, the vision of DSVDA was born. We are passionate in ensuring that Deaf survivors and their children get access to services that will support them through their difficult time.
How are are able to help
DSDVA provides comprehensive advocacy to Deaf Survivors and their children. We respect the rights of survivors to make their own decision. Deaf Survivors are the experts in what best fits their needs.
- Peer counseling: Our dedicated team offers empathetic and understanding peer counseling sessions, providing a safe space for Deaf Survivors to share their experiences and receive valuable support.
- Individual counseling: We provide personalized counseling services tailored to the unique needs of each individual, helping them navigate the emotional and psychological impacts of domestic violence.
- Support groups: Our supportive community groups foster connection and healing, allowing Deaf Survivors to connect with others who have shared similar experiences, providing a sense of belonging and empowerment.
- Systems advocacy: We work tirelessly to advocate for Deaf Survivors within systems and institutions, ensuring access to crucial community resources and services.
- Referral and case management: We collaborate closely with other service providers, facilitating referrals and managing cases to ensure comprehensive support for Deaf Survivors on their journey to healing and independence.
- Outreach: We actively engage in outreach initiatives, reaching out to diverse communities to raise awareness about domestic violence and its impact on Deaf individuals.
- Education: We conduct educational programs and workshops to promote violence prevention, equipping community members with the knowledge and skills to recognize and address domestic violence within the Deaf community.
- Deaf Service Providers: We offer comprehensive training to Deaf service providers, focusing on domestic and sexual violence within a survivor-centered, trauma-informed framework. Our aim is to equip them with the necessary tools and knowledge to effectively support Deaf survivors.
- Mainstream Service Providers: Through our training sessions, we educate mainstream service providers on communication access and best practices when serving Deaf survivors. This ensures that they can provide inclusive and effective support to individuals in need.
- Interpreters: We provide specialized training for interpreters, focusing on trauma-informed interpreting and related topics. This training enhances their understanding of the unique needs of Deaf survivors, enabling them to provide sensitive and appropriate interpreting services in challenging situations.
Our Philosophy
Our philosophy is rooted in compassion, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to break the cycle of domestic violence and provide a nurturing environment for Deaf Survivors to thrive.
01.
Providing Services
We are committed to providing comprehensive services to Deaf Survivors, ensuring their safety and well-being.
02.
Providing Education
We prioritize educating both the deaf community and service providers on issues of domestic violence, fostering greater awareness and understanding.
03.
Enhancing Accessibility
Through training and technical assistance, we strive to establish more accessible and inclusive services that meet the unique needs of deaf survivors.
