Know the danger signs: It's not OK launches new resources on lethality
Tue 10 Jan 2017
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 ...
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.
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