Opinion: The festive season is not festive for all

Violence is never okay. Photo/File

The Christmas and New Year period is often a time where friends and family get together and make new fond memories that will last a lifetime.

For some though, it is a stressful time of year that causes heartbreak and trauma - and that is no different in Tauranga.

Tauranga Women's Refuge is being forced to transfer traumatised women and children out of the district because it can not cope with the demand for its services.

People are self-referring themselves and are being referred by police.

And this is just the beginning of a busy time for those who work to help the city's domestic abuse victims.

Shakti Tauranga Women's Refuge is also bracing itself for an influx of women and children needing refuge in its safe house in the coming days.

This is such a sad situation to be in but, unfortunately, it is a reality for many in our community.

Some of these victims are also having to be moved out of town because the demand for a refuge in the city is so high!

Imagine, firstly, being in a situation where you are so threatened by a so-called loved one that you fear for your safety. Tough, right?

Then imagine having to leave town and seek a safe haven somewhere you do not know anyone to gain extra support from.

I can't say I understand what these victims go through but I have empathy and I hope anyone in these situations seek and get the help they need to keep themselves and their families safe.

Anyone who is in danger, please do not hesitate to ask for help and remember: if you are being abused, it is not your fault.