Once again Bairnsdale Regional Health is supporting the United Nations-led campaign to address gender inequalities, gender-based violence and to take action to prevent violence before it starts.

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence runs from Wednesday, 25 November to Friday, December 10.

The COVID-19 pandemic has shone a light on the inequalities, disrespect and violence that women are experiencing.

We have seen a groundswell in Australia this year of people of all genders demanding change when it comes to inequality and violence.

However, we have also seen workplaces, schools, families and communities turn a blind eye to sexism and other drivers of gender-based violence.

Many Australians are ready for change, and it’s time to turn hope into action.

By choosing to lead with respect in our relationships, workplaces, homes, schools, universities and communities, we can prevent family violence and gender-based violence together.

The theme of this year’s campaign is Respect is….

Locally, Gippsland organisations are using the slogan Let’s Chat.

To encourage BRHS staff to have these important conversations with friends and colleagues, the Strengthening Hospital Response to Family Violence (SHRFV) program is giving out coffee mugs to BRHS staff, along with a voucher from Miss Beanz coffee cart in the BRHS Cafeteria.

Pick up your mug, enjoy your cuppa and talk about how you can help make the changes in attitudes and language within your families, friends, clubs and workplaces that will ensure everyone is treated with respect regardless of gender, race, or sexuality.

Take the time to watch these two short videos, below, as a starting point for your conversations.

(Trigger warning – themes of sexual and family violence).

Mugs and vouchers will be available during the 16 days. Watch the Intranet for further details.