Christmas is meant to be a time of peace and goodwill, but sadly it is also a time of year when police see an increase in family violence.
Family Violence Coordinator for Central District Police, Maree Hill said: "Financial pressures and the stresses of organising the family festivities can see tempers fray. Add alcohol to the mix and you have a potentially explosive cocktail.
"Children can be the worst affected. Through no fault of their own they could end up growing up with tarnished memories of Christmas. Violence is inexcusable and there are steps that families can take to reduce the risks."
• Planning is the key, especially when there are different family groups involved or where parents of children are separated and there are access issues. Agree social and family arrangements in advance and stick to the agreed plans. Make sure children get to spend quality time with both parents if there is shared custody.
• Don't spend what you can't afford. Work out what you need to buy for Christmas and what bills you need to cover and set that money aside.
• If you are finding the whole idea of Christmas too stressful talk to a friend or someone else that you can trust.
• Go easy on the alcohol. If you are drinking make sure you have equal amounts of water or non-alcoholic drinks.
• If an argument starts to brew, take a deep breath and walk away. Time out to let everyone calm down and if necessary sober up.
• If you have real concerns for your safety or the safety of your children contact the police.
Miss Hill added: "We do a great deal of work all year round with different partner agencies and organisations. But early intervention is also assisted greatly by the individuals and families accepting that it is not okay and that there is now shame in asking for help."
Useful links and numbers:
Police emergency - 111
Women's Refuge - www.womensrefuge.org.nz (0800 1 REFUGE)
Victim Support - www.victimsupport.org.nz (0800 VICTIM)
Lifeline - www.lifeline.org.nz (0800 111 777)
Family Violence It's Not OK - www.areyouok.org.nz (0800 456 450)
This advice forms part of the 12 Crime of Christmas campaign by Central District Police who wish you a very merry and safe Christmas and New Year.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 06 351 2546 or 027 234 8256.