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AIM: The group is exclusive for
people who have
suffered the lost of a loved one
through homicide,
whether it is a wife, partner,
child or sibling.
The motto is THE KEY (to survival)
Caring - Sharing and surviving
The Group offers support to these
secondary
victims by sharing and caring.
The Group meets every Third Sunday
at the Irish Australian Association,
11-15 Carrington Street, Adelaide,
at
7 p.m.
President: Lynette
Nitschke
Started the group about several
years ago.
Contact with the group may be made
by writing to
The group publishes a regular NewLetter.
"UNLOCKING THE HOMICIDE MAZE"
Is a recent publication which provides extensive information for
people affected by a homicide.
The booklet is designed to provide a better understanding of the
Criminal Justice System
and Services, for persons affected by Homicide.
Copies are available from the HVSG and the Police Department
Why-attend a Group?
When a family member is murdered, the emotional
and physical devastation is
immeasurable; the consequences unimaginable and far reaching. The
burden
of the death may seem intolerably heavy with strong feelings of
disbelief, anguish,
loneliness, bewilderment, bitterness, anger, guilt and shame.
People may seek the support of a group for different
reasons. The assistance
offered by family and friends, though invaluable. It may not seem
to be enough.
Some people do not wish to trouble' others with their grief but
know they need the
support of others who understand. Some feel unable to express their
grief because
family and friends may regard normal mourning as evidence of 'not
coping' or
'breaking down.' Some people feel unable to turn to family and friends
for comfort
because the circumstances of the murder and the subsequent police
investigation
disrupt their usual support systems. Others find it reassuring to
be with people
who have had a similar experience.
People who attend the group report that they benefit
from a sense of feeling
understood and accepted. The experience of being listened to without
censure
or judgement is self-affirming and reassuring. It also helps to
counterbalance
common feelings of doubt and isolation. The group setting offers
people a place
of protection where they can reel safe, listening to others relate
their stories,
describe their reactions and express their feelings affirms one's
experiences.
What happens at a Group?
There are no hard and fast rules, though generally
a meeting begins with
people introducing themselves and telling the others as much or
as little
of their experiences as feels comfortable for them. A theme usually
arises
and people share with one another their common ground and differences.
All sorts of feelings are expressed at a group meeting. There can
be
sadness and bewilderment and a desire to understand the enormity
of
the loss. Other times feelings of anger; resentment, guilt and shame
are
shared. Humour is common and may lead to insight, a redirection
of one's
grief and renewed II sense of purpose. No matter what feelings are
expressed.
People invariably feel a sense of relief.
A group meeting may not be about grief; other
aspects of life may be
reviewed, experienced, commented on and expressed. For example,
attitudes about the criminal justice system are shared, the difficulty
in obtaining information and the frustration accompanying court
delays
are lamented and the effects of the person’s relationships are discussed.
Insight and awareness may lead to valued personal change- 'the loss
does not 'only take away.’ At every third meeting a special guest
will be
invited to discuss specific concerns shared by members of the group.
There arc also opportunities for those wishing to be involved in
education
and Reform, as we are involved in giving talks in these areas and
working
toward changes where necessary.
Useful resources:
Attorney General's Department - Crown Solicitor's
Office
Tel 08 8207 1555
Crisis Care: Tel. 131 611
Director of Public Prosecution: (DPP)
(Witness Assistance Service)
Tel. 08 8207 1529
State Coroner's Office:
302 King William Street, Adelaide
Tel. 08 8204 0600
Victim Support Service:
11 Halifax Street,
Adelaide
Tel. 08 8231 5626
FOR
FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE EMAIL
Click link to site: Grieflink for further information on grief and coping.
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