Faith Communities Against Family Violence

By parish in All Sorts

A National Statement

Faith Communities Against Family Violence
A National Statement

Family violence in our communities is one of the most significant moral, spiritual and social challenges that we currently face as a country. As communities of faith in Aotearoa New Zealand, we believe it is our responsibility to take a stand and address this challenge.
Family violence is completely unacceptable and is never justified. Often the most vulnerable victims of violence are children, and it is here that we are taking a stand. Our children deserve the best we can offer them.
Accordingly, we have come together, as communities of faith, to declare the following:
• We recognise that children are our future and as such are a
significant and precious gift to society today.
• We understand that our beliefs, values and traditions will live on
through our children.
• We accept that the wellbeing of children is our responsibility. • We acknowledge that children deserve our compassion, kindness,
love and care.
• We believe we can make a difference in the lives of children and
families.

In light of these declarations we commit our communities to:
• Accept our responsibility to stand up for our children, women and families.
• Refuse to tolerate violence within our families or communities or turn a blind eye to it.
• Strive to provide places of safety and nurture for the children and families of our community.
• Encourage our communities to report family violence, hold perpetrators accountable and provide support for victims.
• Ensure that our staff are trained to respond safely to family violence and are well supported with appropriate policies and resources.
• Partner with community organisations to ensure that families experiencing violence are referred appropriately and we will advocate with government for policies and resources to address family violence.
10 December 2012