Family Violence

Family Violence

Many families in Aotearoa are affected by family violence.  Help is available. If you or your tamariki are affected by family violence, call the Family Violence Information Line on 0800 456 450, or Shine's national helpline on 0508 74 46 33.

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Key points about family violence

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).

  • 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
  • help is available - call the Family Violence Information Line on 0800 456 450 or call Shine's national helpline on 0508 74 46 33

What impact can family violence have 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 can I go for help?

Check out the KidsHealth directory of information, support, helplines and resources

Help is available.

If you or your tamariki are affected by family violence, or if you want help with your behaviour, call:

  • the Family Violence Information Line on 0800 456 450 to find out about the organisations in your area who can help
  • call Shine's national helpline on 0508 74 46 33
Acknowledgements

The content on this page has been developed and approved by the Clinical Network for Child Protection, Paediatric Society New Zealand. 

This page last reviewed 24 May 2023.

Call Healthline on 0800 611 116 any time of the day or night for free health advice when you need it