The reason we are petitioning for no wrong door which encompasses the case management of more than mental health services and supports for survivors and families, is the huge body of evidence of how adverse childhood experiences significantly increases the risks of a multitude of diseases, health issues and symptoms. Human minds and bodies are connected systems, and trauma can create a state of perpetual hurt, fear and anxiety that can manifest itself in physical, emotional, mental and social pain.

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are described by Robert Maunder and Jon Hunter, Professors of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, as “the cause of causes" of diseases.

"Even more common than smoking and increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, chronic lung diseases, sexually transmitted infections, chronic pain, mental illness and reduces one’s life by as much as 20 years. This public health hazard that hides in plain sight is childhood adversity: experiences like physical abuse, sexual abuse and neglect."

"The reason that ACEs contribute to so many diseases is that they are associated with many things that trigger other causes of disease. Growing up in conditions that are consistently frightening or stressful affects the biology of developing bodies, especially the development of the systems that regulate our reactions to threats, from predators to viruses. ACEs are even associated with changes in our chromosomes that are linked to early mortality."

One devastating personal impact of ACEs is a loss of human connection. "The health costs of human disconnection are profound."

We are so grateful that Mr Stuart Grimley MP is writing to Mr Martin Foley MP, Victorian Minister for Health, requesting he and his representatives meet with us, to discuss the importance of 'no wrong doors' for survivors. Increasing safe, trauma informed places for disclosure of childhood abuse at places people are already at, that result in access to holistic and coordinated case management of all their, and their families', health and wellbeing services and supports. Services that include addressing the root cause of many other symptoms and health issues they are experiencing, their childhood trauma.

All public health and care services should be wrapped around the citizens who need them, not fragmented across multiple services providers, disconnected from each other because of the government source of funding.

That's what integrated service systems look like, when based on the principle of 'no wrong door.'

We remain so humbled and grateful for being 12,715 Petitioners Strong! We ARE being heard! 

Thank you.