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Writer's pictureDebbs Murray

Family Violence Messages in a Minute - What to do - Crisis Response


If someone is in immediate danger or there is imminent risk of harm, it’s crucial to act swiftly and safely. However, always ensure that calling for help does not place you or others at additional risk.


Call 111 if the situation is happening right now. The Police in Aotearoa New Zealand are trained in family violence awareness and can identify signs that others may miss.


Safety Plan - Crisis

Start by establishing a sign, emoji, or safe word that your friend or whānau member can send to signal they need you to call 111.


Have all the details the Police might need written down and ready for when you call 111:

  • Full name of your friend or whānau member

  • Date of Birth (DOB)

  • Name and DOB of the person posing the risk, if possible

  • Address of their usual residence

  • Information about children in the home

  • Registration of vehicles

  • Current location of the person calling (this may differ from the usual address and is crucial for 111)


When you call, inform the Police that this is part of a safety plan for a friend at risk of family violence, and they need immediate help.


Provide as much information as you can. If you don’t know an answer, it’s okay to say so. Stay calm and breathe—111 is there to help and will guide you through the process.


After the Police attend a family violence incident, they write a report that goes to a multi-agency response group. This collective response aims to ensure that families and whānau receive the necessary support services based on the identified risks.


If you call in yourself, a plan will be developed based on the perceived need. If you call for someone else, there may not be an immediate response as it could put the primary victim at further risk if they have not reported the incident themselves. However, the information will be recorded and can contribute to identifying patterns of harm and family violence episodes.


Aotearoa New Zealand has hundreds of community-based non-government organisations dedicated to addressing family violence. There are many options for support and advice.

By being the voice for someone, you can open the door to a healing pathway. Even raising concerns can help create a clearer picture of harm patterns and family violence episodes.


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