If you or a child are in immediate danger, call the police on 111 within New Zealand (use the appropriate emergency number in other countries).
Key points about family violence
- family violence is common in Aotearoa
- family violence is violence between people with a close personal relationship - it affects women, children, men, young and old
- family violence can take many forms - it can be physical, sexual or emotional
- if you feel afraid of your partner, controlled or always put down, this is family violence.
Call the Are You OK helpline on 0800 456 450 or call Shine's national helpline on 0508 74 46 33. Help is available.
The impact of family violence on health
The constant stress of living with family violence has such an impact that it can lead to bad health and disease.
Tamariki who experience family violence can suffer long-term harm.
Health staff are aware of this and may ask you whether you're affected by family violence.
Where to go for help
Are You OK provides information for people seeking support for family violence in New Zealand. Those worried about safety in their relationship or their supporters can understand their situation better and find pathways to immediate help.
Call their helpline on 0800 456 450 for 24/7 specialist family violence support
If you or your tamariki are affected by family violence, or if you want help with your behaviour, call Shine's national helpline on 0508 74 46 33 or visit their website.
Check out the KidsHealth directory of information, support, helplines and resources.
Acknowledgements
The content on this page has been developed and approved by the Clinical Network for Child Protection, Paediatric Society New Zealand.
