No violence this Christmas

20 Dec

2014

We recently featured in the Western Leader. Below is a copy of the article 18th December 2014.

NO VIOLENCE THIS CHRISTMAS

WHAT is meant to be the happiest time of year for families can often turn into the worst of times due to family violence.

This is why Waitemata Police have launched “Operation Family” leading up to the Christmas-New Year period. Provisional figures released by police indicate that family violence offending in the Waitemata District increases by about 20 per cent in December and January. Those involved are often repeat offenders and victims.

The operation will see police focus on about 50 families identified as being at a high risk of family violence. Officers will make cold call visits to the homes of known victims to check on their safety, offer advice and provide an opportunity to report any concerns.
Cold call visits will also be made to past family violence offenders.
These visits will be used to arrange extra support for those who need it.

Inspector Claire Humble says the holiday period can bring a sense a dread to some families.
”Family violence is not some thing that should be kept private, it’s a crime. It’s OK to ask for help, and we hope that this operation may make it a bit easier for those people who are at risk to ask for help”.

District family violence coordinator Senior Sergeant Kirstina Jamieson agrees, saying the operation this year is more targeted to those families at risk of violence.“We were well aware that because of the Christmas season and the pressures around money, there is extra stress for families.”

Andrea Deeth founded the Child Abuse Prevention Foundation three years ago as a way to get information to the community at a grassroots level.
“We go out and talk to people about family violence and hand out pamphlets with information. Child abuse shouldn’t be swept under the rug. The impact of sexual abuse of children can last a long time, and it is up to parents to protect their kids. Police are also reminding people who have a protection order against them that they will need to adhere to its conditions”.