Sisters are doing it for themselves

Penny Steyn of the campaign said, “Whether it is a sister, an aunt, a cousin, a grandmother – or even your domestic helper who is so often forgotten – we are all encouraged to give thanks to these influential women in our lives.”

She said due to the unpredictable nature of society, we cannot ignore the rise in gender based violence in our communities, more especially inflicted on women.

“The Domestic Watch Police Customer Service Training, has decided to hold a seminar surrounding the issues of violence and the loose definitions surrounding it,” said Steyn.

In order eradicate the increase in domestic violence in the community, the seminar or “lesson” will focus on domestic violence, and how to deal with it when it occurs.

Steyn said, “Every six hours a woman is killed by an intimate partner, and alarmingly, family violence is one of the most dangerous call-outs that the police can receive.”

Often alcohol or drugs are involved, and emotions are usually extremely high when dealing with a husband and wife, boyfriend and girlfriend dispute or argument, she said.

Steyn warned that if someone is physically abused and fights back and ends up killing their partner, they could be accused of murder.

“Let’s break the silence. Let’s work together to stop crime,” said Steyn.

The meeting for Sun Valley domestic workers will be held on 21 August at La Fiorentina Restaurant on the corner of Bridle Pass and Champion roads.

Details: 082 461 6968; psteyntraining@absamail.co.za