Women’s Refuge is saddened by the devastation that has happened as a result of today’s earthquake. While we are all shocked by the loss of life Women’s Refuge CEO Heather Henare asks families to be extra careful in the way they deal with stress and relationships following the quake.

“In the week following the September quake, there was a 53% increase in domestic violence incidents reported to the police and in the 30 days after, Refuge statistics increased by 30%,” says Ms Henare.

“Disasters do not create violent people,” says Ms Henare. “Rather, a person who may already be, or likely to be violent is catalysed by the kind of stress in a disaster. Those prone to controlling things excessively find their world upside down and can crack under strain. Also, during a disaster when women need help for lots of things, the likelihood she will seek help for domestic violence increases.”

The reasons for the increase in domestic violence following disasters is explained in a piece of research published in 2010 out of Victoria University. Ms Henare implores people to think twice before using violence in any way to their loved ones. “Talk to someone, get help, do not hurt any more.” Family or support workers, she says, can look out for warning signs that violence might erupt such as signs of increased tension. If you want help or advice contact Refuge on 0800 refuge (733 843).

This morning Ms Henare knew two of the four Refuges under the NCIWR umbrella were ok with no injuries recorded. “What I do know, however, is that we need to get support trauma workers down to Christchurch as soon as possible.”

“Our workers in September barely got through the weeks after the quake and the devastation yesterday is clearly far greater. We need to let our local workers attend for their own families at this time. We will send down a trauma support team on Thursday by van and take with us any supplies that are donated. Our team will consist of expert family advocates who will be able to support those workers who can stay as well as pick up the expected increase in family violence.”

Women’s Refuge is seeking donations of non perishable food, nappies, blankets, clothes, petrol vouches, cash, petrol vouchers, baby food, anything that would be of use. “We will coordinate getting these donations where they are needed.”

Donate by visiting www.womensrefuge.org.nz or emailing info@refuge.org.nz or call 027 322 4688

ENDS

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