About

About uHaven

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uHaven is a website provided by the Central Australian Women’s Legal Service (CAWLS) to assist young people of all genders in the Central Australia and Barkly Region, build healthier relationships by beginning to understand what Domestic and Family Violence is and where you can go to get help. 


This project began during the COVID-19 pandemic after reports indicated that the pandemic was contributing to increased rates of Domestic and Family Violence, and survivor’s further isolation from services. Recent research also demonstrates that people are experiencing Domestic and Family Violence earlier in relationships and at younger ages. 


In order to promote awareness and help young people break the cycle of violence earlier, CAWLS aimed to create an online platform for young people that would help reduce barriers and stigma about seeking help from a social, health, justice or community service.


Through a human centered design and co-design process led by Brendan Lacota Consulting, CAWLS engaged with young people and service providers from across Central Australia and Barkley to design a website which effectively meets the needs of young people and the people who support them. 


uHaven is funded by the Commonwealth COVID-19 Legal Assistance grant program administered by the Northern Territory Government Attorney General’s Department. 

About the Central Australian Women’s Legal Service

The Central Australian Women’s Legal Service (CAWLS) is a not for profit organisation based in Alice Springs and Tennant Creek. CAWLS provides a free generalist legal service to all women in Central Australia and the Barkly Region, as well as non-legal support such as Financial Counselling, Court support and Tenancy Support. CAWLS operates a Health Justice Partnership with the Alice Springs Hospital and regularly engages in the provision of Community Legal Education & Training. 


A large component of CAWLS service delivery is related to Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) and interconnected legal issues such as family law, child protection, victims of crime compensation and tenancy matters. 

Our Vision

We aspire for a future where all women and their children are safe, living with dignity and respect.

Our Mission

We strive to empower, enable and educate women to improve access to the legal system so their rights are considered, respected and prioritised. CAWLS is an accessible, proactive and responsive service for all Central Australian women with priority given to those in greatest need.

Our Values

Responsive & Trustworthy

Working honestly and consistently with women to provide a professional service that is respectful of the dignity, safety & security of women.

Inclusive & Empowering

Valuing equality of access to our service, and endeavouring to make a positive difference for a diverse range of women.

Collaborative & Accountable

Striving for excellence in service delivery to ensure practices are compliant, accountable and client focused.

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