Now a registered DV Safe Phone collection and agency partner, ENH is asking people to donate their old or unused phones.
As a collection and agency partner, ENH serves as a drop-off point for unused tech, sending the devices back to DV Safe Phone where they are assessed and refurbished.
The refurbished phones are then sent to agency partners such as ENH, which distribute them to people experiencing domestic or family violence.
ENH manager Sarah Peake said becoming a provider filled a gap that had previously existed in DV Safe Phone’s network of partners.
“The phones are completely free,” Ms Peake said.
“We’ll assist them to set up the phones up with all new email accounts et cetera and send them on their way so that they’ve got a safe way of contacting their family, their support service, or whoever they might need to be speaking to.”
According to DV Safe Phone, for many victim survivors, phones are often the first thing taken, broken or monitored by an abuser, leaving them unable to access critical support.
“These (refurbished) phones are ... a new safety net for them,” Ms Peake said.
“They can hide the phone away if they need to, and if they need to call for help or need to access support services, they’ll be able to (without being monitored).”
“It’s an untraceable communication device (which allows) survivors to maintain safe connections with emergency services, healthcare providers and support networks as they rebuild their lives.”
There are no restrictions on the type or condition of device that can be donated at ENH.
All devices are reviewed by a member of DV Safe Phone’s tech team, with any that aren’t suitable for refurbishment sent to be recycled.
Those who have a spare or unused phone can drop it off to ENH at 261 High St, Echuca, or contact the centre on 03 5482 6914.
ENH will receive its first shipment of refurbished phones during the next two weeks, with those who need access to one able to get a device by visiting in person or contacting the centre.
