Projects

A Stitch in Time: Bringing Communities Together to Prevent Violence Against Women

What is a Stitch in Time?

A Stitch in Time is a project of the Alice Springs Womens Shelter aimed at preventing domestic violence against women by increasing the communities capacity to provide support to women in abusive relationships.

How does it work?

A Stitch in Time infuses the long history of domestic violence quilts in Australia with collective narrative therapy ideas to collect womens special knowledge about domestic violence prevention and intervention, and promote them to the broader community. We do this through workshops held with women in urban and remote communities across Central Australia, and public exhibitions of the quilts at festivals and events throughout the year.

Why are community responses so important?

Communities play an important role in responding to domestic violence. Friends, family and work colleagues are the main supporters of women experiencing violence (Australian Womens Safety Survey, 1999). Communities and their leaders also play an important role in the creation of cultural norms and attitudes that contribute to  violence (VicHealth 2007). Therefore it is essential that we work with communities to address the roots of violence against women, and equip them to respond effectively to domestic violence.

Who can be involved?

A Stitch in Time focuses on collecting the special knowledge and skills of women from across Central Australia. Highlighting womens skills and achievements in society is an important part of reducing domestic violence rates (Vichealth 2007, Commonwealth Government 2009). We hold workshops with women from a broad range of cultural, social and geographic backgrounds and communities.

How can I find out more?

If you would like more information on the project, or are interested in hosting a workshop or exhibition, visit www.asws.org.au or email cdt@asws.org.au