Be wise about how much alcohol is consumed this holiday period, Invercargill Women’s Refuge services co-ordinator Cathy Robertson says.
"Be sensible with your alcohol intake. When people are under financial pressure, and things are unknown for their futures, it’s not wise to drink too much."
The holiday period could bring additional stresses on families that had already had a difficult year.
The stress combined with too much alcohol or drugs could quickly change family dynamics.
"Meth (methamphetamine) is still a big problem down here for us," Ms Robertson said.
"It has been a busy time with the lead-up to Christmas. We’ve been steady all the way through."
But she was pleased to say the majority of the refuge’s clients were able to go to family and friends for the holiday period.
"We’ve tried to make sure everyone got somewhere for Christmas."
"It’s living in such uncertain times. That’s been really big for people.
"It’s been really difficult for people in regard to the vaccinations. I think people are feeling the pressure of Covid-19 — well and truly."
The service had heard of families coming under pressure because of divided viewpoints over vaccinations.
"It has been difficult because I’ve heard where there had been a bit of split within families because of not being able to go to Christmas because there’s going to be elderly relatives there."
She wanted to thank the kindness of the Invercargill community for helping out with gifts and food.
"It has been amazing. That’s been a huge help to the people we’ve been working with," Ms Robertson said.
