The Midwest Family Violence Alliance, a collective of agencies who work in the family violence field, have got together to develop a short campaign over the Christmas, New Year and holiday period that provides messages to promote the prevention of family violence.
The Alliance team want to highlight what people can do to raise awareness of family violence prevention. The messages which include “Call it out this Christmas’, “Cool it for Christmas”, “Change your Actions” and “Speak out this Summer”, will be communicated via posters, postcards, community radio announcements and social media throughout the community by all the agencies involved.
Christmas is a special time for people to spend time with family and friends, eat good food, give gifts, socialise and have fun, however it also comes with expectations and family responsibilities. Some people may feel stressed at this time and family issues and tensions can also surface.
There are many pressures around Christmas time, but people have a choice about how they behave. So this Christmas, the Alliance team is promoting that respect and care should be at the top of everyone’s Christmas list and are urging everyone to use the new messages should behaviours arise that don’t align with respect and care for all.
Daphne White from Desert Blue Connect, gives her advice for ensuring a safe and respectful Christmas and New Year.
“Do what is right for your family”, said Ms. White. “Christmas can be difficult at times, but it can also be what you make it.”
“Be respectful to everyone, even if they are bothering you. If a particular person or family member does annoy you, remove yourself from the situation if you know it causes you stress and anger.”
“If you feel irritated or angry, share how you are feeling with someone”, said Ms. White. “Talking to someone can alleviate your feelings of stress, anxiety and anger. It may be as simple as a text message or a phone call to someone you trust.”
There are services available during the Christmas and New Year Period should you need assistance for family violence.
For confidential advice please call:
WA Police for immediate help 000
1800 respect on 1800 737 732
Women’s DV Help Line (WA) 1800 007 339
Men’s DV Help Line (WA) 1800 000 599
Desert Blue Connect Geraldton 9964 2472, or
Chrysalis House Women’s Refuge 9964 2173
