January has been a somber month with the loss of two children and the arrest of two individuals on murder charges in Hamilton and Auckland. Additionally, a Northland baby is currently receiving treatment for severe head injuries, with police actively investigating the situation.
Jane Searle, the chief executive of Child Matters, expressed her profound sadness at the start of the year, stating, “It’s incredibly tragic, and it highlights the shortcomings of our systems when we fail to protect these children.” She also noted that such tragedies are more common than perceived, citing the deaths of a baby and a toddler in January 2022.
Frontline social services and charities are facing escalating demands, necessitating adequate funding, according to Searle. She emphasized the need for a cohesive, long-term approach to address the rising number and severity of cases.
Shine, a family violence service, reported a surge in requests for assistance this summer. Grenville Hendricks, the social services general manager at Presbyterian Support Northern, highlighted the increase in calls to their helpline and referrals, particularly in complex family violence cases.
Hendricks underscored the prevalence of family violence in New Zealand, stressing the importance of recognizing and addressing the risks faced by victims. He also mentioned a rise in severe assaults involving weapons and strangulations that result in hospitalization.
Minister Karen Chhour, responsible for Children and Prevention of Family and Sexual Violence, expressed her sorrow over the loss of a child, urging individuals to report incidents of family violence. She emphasized the need to utilize available resources and support to combat family and sexual violence effectively.
Chhour highlighted the government’s efforts to develop a comprehensive action plan for family and sexual violence, focusing on safeguarding children and breaking the cycle of violence in families. She called for collective action and collaboration with relevant agencies to protect individuals and prevent further tragedies.
Where to get help:
Women’s Refuge: 0800 733 843
It’s Not OK 0800 456 450
Shine: 0508 744 633
Victim Support: 0800 842 846
HELP Call 24/7 (Auckland): 09 623 1700, (Wellington): 04 801 6655 – push 0 at the menu
The National Network of Family Violence Services NZ has information on specialist family violence agencies.
