25 Nov 2021

Breaking Silence | Season 2 | Episode 8: I Got Your Backpack

From Breaking Silence, 6:00 am on 25 November 2021

Series ClassificationPG (Parental Guidance)

Last year, 53,000 women were referred to refuges in New Zealand. For many, there was no time to pack; they just had the clothes on their backs.

Tam was one of those who found herself fleeing from an abusive relationship, but upon arrival at a refuge, something changed her life.

[Click here for more episodes of Breaking Silence]



Simonne Butler

Simonne Butler Photo: Laurence Smith / STUFF NZ LTD

If someone has said they are going to kill you, believe them, they will. It might not happen today; it might not even be this year… but it’s on its way.

These are the powerful words of Simonne Butler, the host of Breaking Silence, New Zealand’s only web series dedicated to shining a light on the many faces of domestic abuse in Aotearoa.

Simonne was critically injured in a violent attack from the man she lived with. Her journey to recovery is ongoing, as is her commitment to stop domestic abuse in Aotearoa.

In the first season of Breaking Silence, we investigated what New Zealanders need to know if we are to curb our shocking domestic abuse statistics.

In season two, Magnetic Pictures and Stuff join forces to tell the powerful stories of those affected by domestic violence. Over eight new episodes, we look closely at the many guises of control and reveal why they're frequently ignored and misunderstood.

Magnetic Pictures

Juanita Edwards and Brian Holland formed Magnetic Pictures in 2019, with a view to create original, high-quality programmes people love to watch. Their passion is factual content with a social focus.

Made with the support of NZ On Air

Made with the support of NZ On Air.


Do you need help?

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 111.

Other places to seek help:

Women's Refuge
For women and children. 0800 733 843

Shine
Free call 0508 744 633 domestic abuse helpline for women and men, daily 9am-11pm.

Shakti
24-hour Crisis Line 0800 742 284: 0800SHAKTI

Oranga Tamariki
0508 326 459

It's Not OK
0800 456 450

Youthline
0800 376 633 or text free 234

Hohou Te Rongo Kahukura - Outing Violence
Information about how partner and sexual violence affects Rainbow communities

Outline Aotearoa
0800 688 5463 (0800 OUTLINE) for Rainbow support. 6-9pm every day

Free counselling service NEED TO TALK?
Free call or text 1737 any time