NZFVC wishes you a safe and happy break, reopening 10 January 2022

Support services for people experiencing violence will still be available over the Christmas break. Contact details for support services are provided on our website.

The It's Not OK Campaign has information about how to help including danger signs and suggestions for what to say or do if you are concerned about someone.

Domestic violence service provider Shine is encouraging people to be prepared to respond to people experiencing violence:

"Being prepared requires an understanding of how coercive control and social inequity causes entrapment. So please, take time to learn more today. A good place to start is by reading some of the resources on Shine’s website, including this page about how to help someone you know."

The Joint Venture for Family Violence and Sexual Violence has shared these safety messages for the holidays in their 20 December 2021, E-Update:

• "When you see friends, whānau and family over Christmas, check in on their wellbeing. If you notice a change in their behaviour or you are worried about their safety, ask if they are OK. No-one should be hurt or feel fearful, threatened or harassed.
• If you or someone else is being hurt, controlled or is fearful, you can support them to get help.
  • For family violence help contact: the family violence information line on 0800 456 450 or web chat for support and information about services near you. https://www.areyouok.org.nz/
  • For sexual abuse help contact: Safe to Talk — the sexual violence helpline. Call 0800 044 334, text 4334 or email support@safetotalk.nz. https://www.safetotalk.nz
  • If you or someone else is in danger call the Police on 111.
• Family violence and sexual violence, including child abuse can escalate during the holiday period. If you or someone else is in danger call the Police on 111.
  • When you’re enjoying yourself this summer, remember - if they’re out of it, they’re not up for it. Make good decisions around alcohol, sex and consent and look after for your mates. If you or someone else is in danger call the Police on 111.
  • Family violence and sexual violence crisis and support services are still open and want to help. It’s OK to ask for help at any time you don’t need to wait for a crisis. If you or someone else is in danger call the Police on 111.
  • Are you worried that someone is being hurt or abused? You can do something. Let the person know that help is available and support them to contact one of options below.
    • For family violence help contact: the family violence information line on 0800 456 450 or web chat for support and information about local services near you. https://www.areyouok.org.nz/
    • For sexual abuse help contact: Safe to Talk — the sexual violence helpline. Call 0800 044 334, text 4334 or email support@safetotalk.nz. https://www.safetotalk.nz/
• People in COVID-19 isolation (whether MIQ or self-isolation) can still get help if they feel unsafe. No-one should be hurt or feel fearful, threatened or harassed. If you or someone else is in danger call the Police on 111."

The It's Not Ok Campaign has previously put out these holiday messages:

Finally, 2021 has been another challenging year. We hope that you are able to take some time out to be with your whānau, rest and rejuvenate over the holiday break.

We wish everyone a safe, happy and healthy break.