New Zealand’s national child abuse advocacy group says the importance of protecting New Zealand’s most vulnerable whānau and tamariki is as crucial as ever as the country faces extended lockdown periods.
Jane Searle, the Chief Executive of Child Matters, says being in lockdown should not stop people from looking out for those in the community who are at risk, particularly children.
“If you’re concerned about the wellbeing of a family or a child, please make sure you seek advice from one of the many community organisations that are there to offer advice and support. Don’t be scared to call. We all want the same thing – to make sure our tamariki are safe. Please, say something to someone, it could save a life.”
The call from Child Matters follows the death of a child in Rotorua at the weekend and the subsequent homicide investigation of a 27-year-old woman.
“Lockdown – and the ongoing restrictions relating to COVID-19 – have been challenging for us all. But for some families, the extra stress and isolation that comes with lockdowns means the situation is exacerbated by pre-existing issues such substance abuse, over-crowding, or factors such as stress about loss of employment,” says Ms Searle.
“In these situations, it doesn’t take much for the pot to boil over and tragically, family members – including our children – often bear the brunt of the consequences.”
Ms Searle says if people think someone is in immediate danger they need to make sure they call 111.
“If you have concerns about the wellbeing of someone in your community or you need to reach out for help yourself, call a helpline or one of the many community organisations that are there to support you and offer help, even in Level 4,” she says.
Family violence helplines, refuges and other crisis services are essential services and are operating at all lockdown levels.
Child Matters is an independent child abuse advocacy and training provider and New Zealand’s only national charitable trust dedicated to the prevention of child abuse.
ENDS
Contact:
Shae Skellern
Phone: 021 350 082
Further information:
If you or anyone else is in immediate danger, ring 111. If it is not safe to talk, you can press 55 to be put through to police, who will ask you questions to answer by pressing keys on your phone.
If you are in danger in your bubble at home, it is OK to leave to keep yourself safe. You could go to a supermarket or chemist and then call the police on 111 for help.
Below are some services who are able to support whānau:
Women's Refuge New Zealand: 0800 733 843 - 24 hours
It's not OK Campaign Family violence information line: 0800 456 450
Shine National Helpline: 0508 744 633 - 9am to 11pm
Shakti NZ - for migrant and refugee women: 0800 742 584 - 24 hours
Office for Seniors New Zealand - Elder Abuse Helpline: 0800 32 668 65 - 24 hours
