RECOGNISING, standing up and speaking out against domestic and family violence has just gotten easier for young people.

Samaritans has launched a new mobile app, called ‘Oi’ which can be downloaded for Apple and android phones.
The app is a digital resource developed specifically for young people to help them in identifying and being a voice against abuse.

The app directs youth to services, which can provide practical help to stop abuse or assist to remove young people from a situation which puts them at risk.

The app is the result of an Optus Future Makers Grant which Samaritans received in 2016.

’Oi’ was designed to be a tool that provides self-help information for young people about domestic violence.

The app includes an interactive quiz, a frequently asked questions section, and a comprehensive list of support services available for anyone who needs to talk to someone or is at risk of domestic or family violence.

There is also a pledge which people can make via the app to never commit or remain silent about abuse and share across their social media networks and feeds.

Lynn Vatner of the Yacaaba Centre told News Of The Area, “Anything that brings people’s attention to domestic violence and shines the light on it is a good thing.”

“People should do what they can to assist someone that they think is being abused and should do what they can without endangering themselves.”

“Always call the police, they are the the ones with all the power, call the police and report it if you think someone is at risk.”

Reports on domestic violence can be made to the police anonymously,” she said.

The Oi App can be downloaded from the App store or on GooglePlay.

 

By Marian SAMPSON