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Violence can be physical or emotional, but it always causes harm. When violence happens in the home, it can leave a young person feeling as if there is no safe place for them.
Violence is when someone hurts another person physically or emotionally. This could mean hitting someone, calling them names, threatening, bullying, or trying to control them. Violence is never okay.
When violence happens in the home, it can have a big impact on young people. They might become anxious or depressed, have suicidal thoughts, or have trouble concentrating and controlling emotions. Good, supportive family relationships are important for everyone to feel happy, and to do well. No-one should ever feel unsafe or scared with their family at home.
If a young person is experiencing violence at home, they will need support to know what to do.
Young people who live in violent homes might react in different ways. They may:
Are you concerned about someone’s safety at home? People experiencing or witnessing violence might be afraid to say anything. Ask them if they are okay, keep being supportive of them, and let them know they can talk to you when they are ready.
Are you concerned about violence in your family? Some family members experiencing or witnessing violence might be afraid to say anything.
Confidential Helpline: 0800 456 450
This website has information about family violence, what it is, where to get help, and how you can help if you know someone affected by it.
Confidential Helpline: 0800 733 843
A women’s organisation for women and their children, to help prevent and stop family violence in New Zealand.
Confidential Helpline: 0508 744 633
Shine is a national domestic abuse charity focused on making homes violence free.
Confidential Helpline: 0800 742 584
Shakti is a Women’s Refuge associate member that provides culturally appropriate domestic violence intervention services to women of Asian, African and Middle Eastern origin
Confidential Helpline: 0508 32 64 59
Child Youth and Family work closely with families to help them find their own solutions so they can deal with their problems, make the changes they need so their children will be safe and well cared for, and achieve their goals for the family.
The Family Justice system is designed to help people resolve family issues, where possible, without going to court. This site has information on domestic violence and how to get help.
Skylight offers a wide range of services to support those facing times of change, loss, trauma and grief. They have a range of resources on parenting after there has been violence in the family
Confidential Helpline: 0800 376 633
Youthline provides free phone, text, and email counselling support. Its website has great information for youth dealing with challenging situations, including how to recognise abuse and get support.