Police have issued a new video replicating a famous scene from the Christmas-themed rom-com Love Actually, using the popular film to draw attention to domestic violence.
Violence among families increases around the holiday period each year - and the police are urging people to seek help. The video, which imitates an iconic scene from the film, sends a Christmas message to New Zealand women to break their silence around family violence.
"If you have an issue or you feel unsafe, call a neighbour, call the police, ring 111 and we will support you," Whāngaia Ngā Pā Harakeke Waitemata Director, Detective Inspector Brett Batty told Newshub.
The message is a timely one, as police are called to increasing numbers of domestic violence incidents nationwide in the lead-up to Christmas.
"In Waitemata alone, we're expecting a 6.8 percent increase in family harm... things like financial issues, employment issues, drugs and alcohol can become more prevalent, and family members [come] together [this time of year]," Batty said.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson did a similar thing a few weeks ago - but here, the message can no longer fall on deaf ears.
Thousands of families in New Zealand are affected by family violence. Officers attend an incident every four minutes. Children's development is at risk when growing up in an abusive household.
Help is available, from people like domestic abuse charity, Shine. It's seen incidents of family violence rise dramatically since November.
"Which is a bad thing, but also perhaps an indication of a good thing - people are less prepared to put up with violence," Shine general manager Jane Drumm said.
Drumm said the video is fantastic.
"It's got important and quite serious key messages, but the whole ambience is friendly and supportive and that's what we want," she told Newshub.
"Police are always looking for new and innovative ways to cut through to our community. We're trying to use social media as one of those tools," Batty said.
This time, the message is simple - take the first step, and ask for help.
Where to find help and support:
Shine (domestic violence) - 0508 744 633
Women's Refuge - 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)
Need to Talk? - Call or text 1737
What's Up - 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787)
Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
Youthline - 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
Samaritans - 0800 726 666
Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
