Know the danger signs: It's not OK launches new resources on lethality

January 20, 2017 at 12:23 PM

*From the New Zealand Family Violence Clearinghouse*

In December, the It's not OK Campaign launched new resources highlighting signs that a woman is in danger of being killed by her partner or ex-partner.

The new resources, Know the Danger Signs, identify seven signs or indicators that a woman may be at risk of being killed. The resources includes a brochure, poster and videos. The videos feature New Zealanders who have lost a loved one as a result of domestic violence, including Mark Longley, Karen Edwards, John McGrath and David White.

The seven signs are:

  • Controlling behaviour
  • Intimidation
  • Threats to kill
  • Strangulation and 'choking'
  • Worsening violence – more severe, more frequent
  • Intense jealousy or possessiveness
  • Stalking

The It's not OK Campaign website says:

Signs that someone is in danger of being killed by their partner are often missed by friends, family and others until it is too late. … These danger signs are either not seen, or dismissed as not serious - yet we know that certain signs mean that a victim is highly likely to be killed by her partner.  We all need to know these danger signs so we can keep people safe.

It also says:

About half the homicides in NZ each year are family violence related. One woman is killed by her partner or ex-partner every month.  About half of those victims will be murdered during or following separation from their partner. Never assume that a victim is safe because she is planning to leave or has just left a violent relationship.

The campaign encorages people to "Take action – you may be the only one who does." Contact details for services are provided.

The resources were developed in response to a request from the Family Violence Death Review Committee.



Category: It's not OK