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Devonport, TASMANIA

Women come together in support of each other

A group of women in Devonport Tasmania has taken an active role in understanding the traumas of war by forming partners of veterans support group.

The Younger Veterans' Wives and Partners Devonport and North West Support Group was established in 1999 with a grant as a place where women could share their experiences in a supportive environment while at the same time improve their own health and well being.

The grant allowed the group to pay for the hire of a venue, to pay for transport and to put 10 members through a first aid course.

Studies conducted by the Department have shown that up to 40 per cent of veterans' partners suffer stress, and 30 per cent depression.

Barbara Garwood, a founding member of the group, says it's often difficult for women to understand the physical and mental health issues affecting their husbands and partners. By gathering in support of each other, the group's 20 members are able to vent emotions and share thoughts that would otherwise go unsaid.

Being part of the group helps women rebuild confidence and self-esteem and to develop a greater awareness of their own and their partners' health issues. "In leading by example, the women will look and feel better, which in turn should encourage the veterans to do the same."

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"We all come knowing that what is said in the group, stays in the group," Barbara says.

Members invite guest speakers on issues including posttraumatic stress, chronic illness, personal safety, women's health, exercise and relationships.

Barbara says the group is helping partners of veterans deal with the pressures of life and educating them to make healthy lifestyle choices. She says the group may look at charging a small membership fee and initiate fundraising activities in order to maintain the support service.

According to Barbara, the grants panel that considered her group's application appeared impressed by their plan to survey participants every six months in terms of outcomes of the project. She feels sure the support group is in Devonport to stay and will continue to provide strength and encouragement for the wives and partners of local veterans.

Peace, tranquillity, support and debriefing

Project: the formation of a support group for the wives and partners of veterans.

Grant value: $5,690

Community benefits: women feel less stressed and alone, become more understanding and supportive of their partners and begin making healthy lifestyle choices.

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