Domestic Violence during COVID-19 Lockdown
19 August 2021
New Zealand has the highest reported rate of family harm (formally referred to as domestic violence) in the developed world, with police attending one report of family harm every four minutes on average. Unfortunately rates of family harm have increased in places hardest hit by Covid 19 – especially where there are mandatory lockdowns. Sadly, New Zealand will not likely be exempt.
For people who are experiencing domestic violence, mandatory lockdowns isolate them from the people and services that could help them. New Zealand agencies are preparing to deal with a possible physical and emotional violence increase in the country during this lockdown period, as the added stress may increase family violence. Their help is available 24/7.
If you are in danger now ring 111 immediately.
The most important thing is that you and your children (if any) are safe, please reach out and contact the crisis services. Some contact details are provided below.
Once you immediately safe, we can help you to apply for a Protection Order against the person that has been violent. If a Protection Order is granted, that will provide protection from any further abuse including any contact from the perpetrator.
The Family Court is still hearing essential matters, and if you need help to protect you from an unsafe situation, the Courts will be able to deal with this, as your safety is a priority.
Do You Need Help?
If you're in danger now:
• Phone the police on 111 or ask neighbours or friends to ring for you.
• Run outside and head for where there are other people.
• Scream for help so that your neighbours can hear you.
• Take the children with you.
• Don't stop to get anything else.
• If you are being abused, remember it's not your fault. Violence is never okay.
Where to go for help or more information:
- Women's Refuge: Free national crisis line operates 24/7 - 0800 refuge or 0800 733 843 www.womensrefuge.org.nz
- Shine, free national helpline 9am- 11pm every day - 0508 744 633 www.2shine.org.nz
- Shakti: Providing specialist cultural services for African, Asian and middle eastern women and their children. Crisis line 24/7 0800 742 584
- It's Not Ok: Information line 0800 456 450 www.areyouok.org.nz
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