OKDHS Offers Domestic Violence Awareness Training

OKLAHOMA CAPITOL -- According to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, acts of domestic violence have increased steadily during the last decade. In 2000 alone there were more than 22,000 acts of domestic violence committed in Oklahoma. That includes assault, sex crimes, assault and battery and even murder.
The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) has identified domestic violence as a major obstacle for women attempting to gain financial independence through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program.

To better educate the public about domestic violence, the OKDHS Family Support Services Division began Safe Town, a domestic violence awareness course. Safe Town offers a deeper level of insight into domestic violence, its warning signs, how it affects families and how to help.

"We encourage not just those who work in healthcare or law enforcement, but also civic groups, clubs, businesses, anyone who’s interested in educating themselves about domestic violence to call us," said Leah Carver, programs manager, OKDHS Family Support Training Unit. "The more people know about domestic violence, the warning signs and what can be done, the quicker we can stop the cycle of abuse."

Health care providers, law enforcement, mental health and education personnel participating in Safe Town may qualify for continuing education credit. If you would like to schedule a Safe Town training course for your group, contact the OKDHS Family Support Services Training unit at (405) 521-2895, and they will be happy to bring Safe Town to your town. Enrollment is free and a class size of at least 30 participants and adequate meeting space is required.

For more information about domestic abuse, or to get help, contact the Oklahoma Safe Line at 1-800-522-SAFE (7233) or the national domestic abuse hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE.

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