ESD In Community Services
Supporting healing, empowerment and recovery after gender-based violence.
Many people who have experienced gender-based violence describe impacts on their sense of safety, confidence, trust and connection with themselves and others.
Empowered Self Defence (ESD) is a trauma-informed, evidence-informed program that supports survivors to reconnect with their strengths, build confidence and develop practical skills that enhance their sense of agency and choice.
Through a supportive and empowering approach, participants explore boundaries, communication, personal safety, help-seeking and self-protection strategies while recognising and building on the strengths they already possess.
A Trauma-Informed Approach
We recognise that experiences of violence can affect how people feel in their bodies, relationships and everyday lives.
Our ESD programs are grounded in trauma-informed principles, including:
- Safety
- Choice
- Collaboration
- Empowerment
- Respect for lived experience
Participants are always encouraged to engage at a level that feels comfortable and appropriate for them.
Supporting Healing Through Empowerment
Healing is not only about reducing distress. It is also about rebuilding confidence, reclaiming personal agency and reconnecting with a sense of possibility.
ESD can support participants to:
- Build confidence and self-belief
- Strengthen boundaries
- Develop assertive communication skills
- Recognise warning signs and unhealthy behaviours
- Increase feelings of safety and self-efficacy
- Reconnect with personal strengths
- Strengthen help-seeking and support networks
Many participants describe ESD as an opportunity to experience themselves differently, not as defined by what has happened to them, but as capable, resourceful and strong.
Working Alongside Support Services
ESD is not a replacement for counselling, advocacy or case management.
Rather, it complements existing services by providing an experiential, strengths-based approach that can support healing and recovery.
We partner with:
- Women’s services
- Domestic and family violence services
- Sexual assault services
- Refugee and migrant support organisations
- Youth services
- Community organisations supporting survivors of violence
Programs can be tailored to the needs of different communities and participant groups.
Part of a Broader Movement for Change
Birchtree Foundation recognises that workplace sexual harassment and gender-based violence are influenced by broader social, cultural and structural factors.
While ESD focuses on building confidence, agency and practical skills, it is most effective when delivered alongside organisational initiatives that promote respectful workplace cultures, gender equality, leadership accountability and psychological safety.
Together, these approaches help create workplaces where people can feel safe, respected and empowered to contribute their best.
Creating Pathways from Healing to Empowerment
At Birchtree Foundation, we believe that every person deserves the opportunity to reclaim confidence, agency and hope after experiences of violence and adversity.
Through Empowered Self Defence, we help create pathways from healing to empowerment, supporting individuals to recognise their strengths and move forward with greater confidence and choice.