Family violence campaign, ‘it is OK to ask for help’, launches in Upper Hutt

Family violence is an issue which affects communities throughout New Zealand and Upper Hutt City is no exception. A series of billboards featuring prominent, well-known members from the Upper Hutt community will be erected in the city next week as part of a campaign to reduce family violence. Orongomai Marae Youth Worker Mat Davis and All Black Cory Jane have lent their celebrity to back the campaign which challenges those attitudes and behaviours that accept family violence of any kind.

Upper Hutt City Council, with the support of the Police, the Orongomai Marae and many local community groups, is launching the family violence campaign in Upper Hutt as part of a national campaign led by the Ministry of Social Development and the Families Commission.

Andrea Curtis, Director of Community Services said “We deliberately chose high profile local identities who are known for their commitment to family and strong, safe communities. We are fortunate that people like Cory and Mat have felt able to put their names and faces to a campaign that sends a message loud and clear to our community that family violence is not acceptable. The campaign has a strong message to send out – family violence is not OK but it is OK to ask for help!”

The campaign seeks to encourage victims of family violence to take the first step in breaking the cycle by telling a friend, family member or reporting the incident to the police.

Family violence affects all family members regardless of age, gender or sexual orientation. Growing up in a violent home has a major influence on a child’s life, growth and development that transcends into adulthood. Family violence also has an enormous impact in our community, and on society, which is often hidden from public eye. “Upper Hutt has over 52 reported cases of domestic violence every month. This statistic is unacceptable and these are only the reported cases” says Ms Curtis.

It is OK to ask for help and there are many places to go for help. Ask a friend or family member, contact the Upper Hutt Police on 527 2300 (111 in an emergency) or dial 0800 456 450 where callers will be linked into support services in their community. There are a wide range of social service agencies dedicated to helping individuals and families through family violence.

For more information about family violence, what it is and where to go for help visit www.areyouok.org.nz

ENDS

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