Dark underside to festive season

For some families, the festivities of the Christmas-New Year period are overshadowed by the fear of domestic and family violence.

Support services anticipate an upsurge of this violence, although they also emphasise that domestic and family violence is relentless and really has no season.

There are trigger points that heighten violence at this time. Tensions are high as household budgets are stretched and separated families come together.

People also spend more time at home and with immediate and extended family over the holidays.

People often feel financial pressures at this time.

Old grievances can resurface. More alcohol flowing than usual can intensify abuse.

The State Government works in partnership with community-based services to deliver information and support to people across Queensland who have experienced domestic and family violence.

For the past two years, the Department of Communities has run the Act as 1 campaign, that calls on neighbours, friends, family members, work colleagues and community members to take a stand against domestic and family violence and support those affected.

Research shows that eight out of 10 of people agree they would intervene in some way to support people affected by domestic violence, but they would like more information on appropriate responses.

To find out more about how you can help, visit the Act as 1 campaign website or follow Act as 1 on facebook.

For confidential support and advice vist the domestic and family violence webpage, call the dvconnect womensline on 1800 811 811 (24-hour) or dvconnect mensline on 1800 600 636 (9am until midnight).