Paradigm shift to tackle violence

Outlook CEO Tony Fitzgerald. 131401_01

By BEN CAMERON

WITH women with disabilities suffering violence at a higher rate than any other group, Outlook is getting on the front foot with cultural change around its Pakenham office.
Releasing its Violence Action Plan, Outlook White Ribbon Ambassador Tony Fitzgerald said the charity wanted to be a leading voice.
“Outlook wants to become a White Ribbon accredited organisation,” he said.
“We have a mix of staff, and many are vulnerable due to a range of circumstances.
“This plan clearly outlines how we will become the leader in changing men’s behaviour, so that it is known that at Outlook, violence against women, and their children, and particularly women with disabilities, will not be tolerated at any level.”
Its Bystander Action program will be drafted into all parts of the organisation, including its induction program, to empower and educate people that perceivably small things like tolerating jokes or demeaning comments can make women feel devalued.
“It starts from developing a culture that says that all forms of violence are wrong,” he said.
“We give people the tools they need to feel comfortable to stand up and say this is wrong.
“I want to make sure all staff, not just the men know that we have a safe place to work, so that we can strengthen our female employees by having information that shows they are safe.
“Empowering our women to say I don’t like what you just said, or did.”
Outlook has also appointed Family Violence Prevention Champions which includes senior management and board members.
“Their role is to be there to be role models, but also be there for staff to approach if they have any concerns,” he said.
He wanted all male staff members to take a stand.
“It can be very basic things like not laughing at a joke that demeans women,” he said.
“Or feeling strong enough to say ‘Hey mate, that’s not right’ when a man makes comments about a woman that is trying to put her down.
“Or making comments about a woman’s appearance, or how she must have slept her way to the top if she’s the boss.”