‘Conversations in the Chair’ is returning to Shepparton for workers in the personal service industry to increase their awareness of gender-based violence.
The event is part of Greater Shepparton City Council’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence campaign and is being hosted in partnership with Women’s Health Goulburn North East.
“We know that people feel really comfortable with, and genuinely trust, their hairdressers and other personal service practitioners, and that they can sometimes disclose very personal information,” gender equity trainer Irene Day said.
“It’s important to us to give these workers support so they are equipped with information about referral pathways, along with exercising self-care in what can sometimes be a confronting situation.”
City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali said local government had an important role to play in gender equality.
“Council partners with other community service organisations to explore measures which may prevent family violence and respond to the needs of victim-survivors as part of the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan,” he said.
“I encourage anyone in the personal service industry to attend the event and learn more about the role they might play in supporting their clients.”
The event will run from 5.30pm to 7pm on Monday, December 5 at North Shepparton Community and Learning Centre, 14 Parkside Dve, Shepparton.
The event is free but bookings are essential by visiting bit.ly/3GNINWq