A new training program for women who are re-establishing their lives after escaping domestic violence has already begun to deliver results.

The charity recently established a partnership with experienced disability service provider, Castle Personnel, to deliver a Certificate II in Retail Services to women who were part of the Got Your Back Sista community and were looking for practical ways to gain skills and find a job in the retail sector.

Last month, eight women (aged from their 30s to 50s) attended a special graduation ceremony at the Got Your Back Sista HQ to celebrate this achievement.

The 12-week course was delivered by Central Coast Community College and included a mix of classroom and tutorial style training as well as the opportunity to gain practical work experience at Got Your Back Sista’s Village People Op Shop in Islington.

One of the graduates has already secured a position with a major retailer in the region.

Meltopia said that the course provided her with skills and experience but importantly gave her the right support to prepare for the job process and interview.

“It’s been some time since I went into a job application process. I felt confident because I had new and updated skills, but I also had a team of people behind me who supported me through every step,” Mel said.

Got Your Back Sista Founder and CEO, Melissa Histon-Browning said that the retail training program was very much in line with the organisation’s ongoing commitment to finding ways to help women and their children thrive and live independently after escaping the trauma of domestic violence.

“Providing access to education and training for women continues to be one of the great challenges for our community,” she said.

“Finding ways to build capacity and confidence is paramount and we are most grateful to Castle Personnel for piloting this program with us.”

Castle CEO, Dianne Hamer said that the organisation recognised the impact that a traumatic relationship can have on a person’s mental health.

“Building a support network, securing a job, or enrolling in a course can go a long way to help address this,” Dianne said.

“Through our Disability Employment Services, we hope to help survivors regain their confidence and achieve their education, employment and personal development goals.”

IMAGE | Graduates celebrating their achievement with Got Your Back CEO & Founder, Melissa Histon.