Gold Coast Health is helping women affected by domestic, family and sexual violence rebuild with dignity through a partnership that provides brand-new clothing and essential items to those arriving at hospital in crisis.
The Dress Her With Dignity initiative, delivered in partnership with charity Convoy of Hope, ensures women who have fled violence or surrendered clothing for forensic examinations receive thoughtfully selected clothing and personal hygiene packs.
Advanced Social Worker Sarah, who works with survivors of sexual assault, said the support goes far beyond providing practical necessities.
“When women arrive, they often have nothing,” she said. “Clothing becomes more than practical, it’s about dignity.”
Gold Coast Health social workers play a vital role across hospitals and community services, providing psychosocial support, safety planning and connecting patients with specialist services from admission through to discharge.
Emergency Department social workers work closely with each woman to prepare personalised packs based on her individual needs. The initiative replaces a previous reliance on donated second-hand clothing, ensuring women receive new, suitable items during an incredibly difficult time.
With one in six women experiencing violence from an intimate partner during their lifetime, hospital staff say small acts of care can have a meaningful impact.
The partnership aims to restore dignity, provide comfort and offer hope as women begin the journey towards recovery and rebuilding their lives.
Image source: goldcoast.health.qld.gov.au