Finding Safety and Support this Christmas
6th of November, 2026
Christmas is meant to be joyful. But for people living with violence, or carrying its effects, it can be one of the hardest times of the year. Aviva’s kaimahi share practical ways to get through the holidays safely, and how you can help others who are having a tough time. The festive season brings a lot of pressure: money worries, family gatherings, kids at home all day, and the expectation of making it special. For people living with violence, that pressure can feel overwhelming.
Aviva’s kaimahi see a pattern every year. Many people hold everything together for Christmas, sometimes reconciling so their children can have a day with both parents. The calls for help often come at the end of January, when school starts and the bills arrive.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. And we want you to know help is here throughout the festive season.
Before Christmas
- Save the number. Aviva’s free support line, 0800 28 48 26, is available 24/7, including Christmas Day.
- Make a simple safety plan. Where could you go if things feel unsafe? Who could you call? How would you get there? Aviva kaimahi can help you put a plan together.
- Keep the essentials handy: a charged phone, some cash, keys, medication, and copies of important documents.
- Worried phone or accounts are being tracked? Call Aviva on 0800 28 48 26 before changing anything. Some changes can alert the other person, and our team can help you do it safely.
On the day
- Keep it simple. Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.
- Have a plan for gatherings. Think ahead about who you can stay close to, a reason to step away (a walk, a trip to the shops, a call to a friend), and how you could leave if you need to
- Be kind to yourself. Rest, eat well, and lean on people who make you feel safe.
When Christmas brings things up
For survivors of family violence and sexual violence, family gatherings and the festive season can bring back difficult memories. That’s a normal response. Give yourself permission to step back, set boundaries and do what feels right for you.
Christmas with tamariki
If money is tight or things at home are hard, it’s natural to worry that your children will miss out.
But the magic of Christmas is about more than what’s under the tree. What children remember most is feeling loved, and spending time with the people who love them. A few free ideas:
- Make decorations or cards together from paper, drawings or things found outside
- Head to a local park, playground, beach or library
- Look out for free community Christmas events and carols in your area
- Start a simple tradition, like a Christmas Eve story or a family walk
If you’re worried about someone
- Listen without judgement, and believe them.
- Don’t take charge. Ask what would help, rather than telling them what to do.
- Keep the door open. Leaving can take time, and your support still matters.
- Look out for each other at summer events and parties. If something doesn’t look right, check in.
- Share the number for Aviva’s 24/7 free support line: 0800 28 48 26.
Christmas can be complicated, and there is no single right way to get through it. What matters most is keeping yourself and your whānau safe, being gentle with yourself, and remembering you don’t have to face difficult moments alone. Whether you need help making a safety plan, someone to talk to, or support for someone you care about, Aviva is here throughout the festive season. Our free support line is available 24/7 on 0800 28 48 26, including Christmas Day. This Christmas, look after yourself, stay connected with people you trust, and remember that support is always available to you.