Breaking the cycle of violence
‘‘As a teacher, I have seen the impact it has on children,’’ Jocelyn Moore says about domestic violence.
Moore is a champion for the It’s Not OK campaign, which is launching in Cambridge tonight.
She has fostered children, been part of a parenting programme, was part of the ministry for Waikeria Prison, and is now a relief teacher in Cambridge.
She was approached to be a champion by Violence Free Waipa co-ordinator Hannah Glover.
‘‘It took me three nano seconds to answer yes.
‘‘Through doing the parenting programme and being involved with kids at school, I have seen the impact that violence or neglect has on these kids.
‘‘They struggle to focus, they struggle to learn, and they struggle with social relationships and their emotions,’’ said Moore.
Violence at home is not always physical, she said. It can come in different forms of control as well, such as isolating someone, not allowing them access to finances, and much more.
‘‘Some people are in a cycle of abuse and we need to stop it.
‘‘If there is lots of arguing at home it creates an angry teenager, who turns into an angry man, and then he becomes what his parents were, even if he hates what they did to him because that’s all he knows,’’ said Moore.
With campaigns being run all around the country with the hope of creating a strong national movement, the Champions Campaign has local, everyday people identified as champions.
‘‘While we are fortunate enough to have a lot of wellknown New Zealand identities in the wider Waipa region, this campaign is about utilising friendly local people who can be found in various parts of our community,’’ Hannah Glover said.
‘‘These people are approachable and have been trained to help when needed.
‘‘This campaign creates awareness around what often happens behind closed doors. Anyone who knows of something happening in their neighbourhood, can approach these champions and ask for help, and they will know what to do and the next steps to take.’’
The campaign launches at Cambridge High School, June 28, from 7pm, with guest speaker Louise Nicholas.
She is a campaigner for the rights of women who have been victims of sexual violence.