Men's group offers support

THE Suncoast Male Emotions Resource Initiative (SMERI) not only runs the Men’s Helpline, but has also helped men in the Domestic Violence Court by providing a male counsellor.

Keith Jeffreys from the support group said many men where not aware of their rights.

"Often this is their first contact with a court and the atmosphere can be unfamiliar and even alien," he said.

"Regrettably a large percentage of male defendants do not attend and just accept the judgements handed down without making any attempt to defend themselves."

Keith said the SMERI counsellors had been a big help to the men who did appear in court, helping to explain the court workings and offering support.

The counsellor service is provided free of charge. The Men’s Helpline number is 5441 4424, and the group can be contacted on 5491 1208.