Effects of system abuse
Alt text: Backbone Collective logo. Heading: Effects of system abuse
Two images of a woman and child with text ribbons around them, first as a whirlpool making things bad; second as a hug supporting the family. The graphic shows the importance of authorities responding safely to disclosures so that victim-survivors (and children) can recover and reach their full potential and further violence is prevented.
System as perpetrator of abuse
Alt text: Backbone Collective logo. Heading: System as perpetrator of abuse
Megaphones shouting at a woman and her children: Different government agencies are listed with corresponding examples of statements that minimise violence and abuse and create barriers that make victim-survivors responsible for trying to get safe without support and resources.
The abuser’s voice is loud, persistent and persuasive
Alt text: Backbone Collective logo. Heading: The abuser's voice is loud, persistent and persuasive.
A woman and her family in the centre, with several megaphones shouting at them. Biggest megaphone from the abuser shouting statements to prevent her from seeking help. Abuser has two other megaphones, towards friends and family, and family court, police and agencies shouting statements that undermine the victim-survivor and result in others doubting that violence is real or blaming the victim-survivor.
Catch 22: When victim-survivors seek protection
Alt text: Backbone Collective logo. Heading: Catch-22: When victim-survivors seek protection from authorities for family violence.
Woman caught in a cycle, on one side the police say "if your case is before the Family Court then we don't like to intervene" and on the other side the family court says "We can't see any Police action here, must be ok".