It’s Not OK Built On Research

New advertisements being released by the It’s not OK campaign this weekend (Sunday 22 August 2010) will encourage people to reach out and act when they know someone who is living with violence.

Families Commission Chief Commissioner Carl Davidson says the research underpinning the ‘It’s Not OK’ campaign has built a solid foundation from which to effect change. “Family violence is a complicated subject and to understand the full range of cause and effect relationships within the area of family violence will take some time.

“The new adverts build on research that indicates people who witness family violence do want to be part of the solution, but do not always know what action to take. The campaign says we can take action and support those who ask for help, and gives encouragement and ideas of how that support might be offered.”

Mr Davidson says the campaign aims to give people the confidence to reach out and to make a stand, but without putting themselves at risk.

“Even asking ‘are you OK’ can make a difference, but it is vital that helpers consider both their safety and the victim(s) before speaking out. There is no one right thing to do or say, but letting that person know you are there to support them to change or get help, can make a difference. And, if there is any risk, then telling the Police may well be the best option.”

The new advertisements encouraging action by witnesses to violence build on the previous series “It’s Not OK” and “It is OK to ask for help”. The campaign is a joint project of the Ministry of Social Development and the Families Commission.

For further information about what you can do, and real stories about what worked, visit www.areyouOK.org.nz or ring the family violence information line (0800 456 450).

ENDS

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