Making Christmas magical for everyone
Local
Christmas is often seen as the most magical, family-orientated time of the year where families revel in the warmth of gatherings and traditions.
But vulnerable people may experience Christmas differently and it can be a difficult time for them. Focusing on family can bring with it pressure, so much so that the magic that Christmas brings to many, can be lost for some.
Whether it’s the anxiety that comes from spending extended time around family members or not having a family to spend time with, Christmas comes with a lot of ideals that many households try to reach. It can bring families and groups closer together but it can also cause tension.
Children, in particular, can also have a specific and idealised version of Christmas in their heads that may not come true in their household. Pressure creates environments that can facilitate behaviour that may not be acceptable.
This period can be anxiety-inducing for both adults and children experiencing domestic abuse in all of its forms and can turn into a frightening time for the victims. There is often a surge in reports of domestic violence from men, women, and children trapped with their abusers. Efforts to secure appropriate support during this period can prove difficult for victims.
A consideration for both children and adults is their mental health over Christmas. Those who are, or have been, part of households with neglect, domestic violence and mental health issues can carry them into other environments. This can affect others, placing them in vulnerable situations.
People with mental health problems can struggle with self-harm and suicidal feelings due to the pressure of Christmas. Making the effort to engage with others may be too difficult for them and finding the supports that work for them during this period can also present additional difficulties.
With the prevalence of smartphones and online gaming, children and young people often spend their time over the Christmas holidays digitally connected to both friends and strangers.
These devices are often top of gift lists for young people and can provide fun for the whole family. The catch, of course, is that access to online platforms bring risks of cyberbullying, scams, predatory behaviours and being exposed to content inappropriate for children.
A parent or caregiver plays a key role in helping children stay safe online. It is important that parents/caregivers are involved in checking games or gadgets for safety and appropriate content as well as monitoring communications and hours spent on them.
Online safety also requires that parents/caregivers let their children and young people know that they can always speak with them if they come across anything that makes them feel worried, scared or embarrassed.
Safeguarding of all people within our communities is a responsibility that belongs to everyone and that responsibility stays with us all year, not just for Christmas. Our communities are made up of our children, our parents and grandparents, our extended families and friends and even those who may be doing it tough who we are yet to know.
We should never underestimate the impact that the extension of human kindness, no matter how small the gesture, can have on those who are vulnerable.
So, this year as we gather and celebrate all that is Christmas, let us keep in mind that safeguarding is not just about keeping from harm those who are vulnerable, it’s about creating spaces within our communities where people feel safe, valued and heard. If we can do that, it could make a world of difference.
The Archdiocesan Integrity and Safeguarding Department is available for advice on safeguarding matters (8210 8150 or caasafeoperations@adelaide.catholic.org.au).
– Annette Troiani, manager, Safeguarding Operations; Adam Cartland, executive director, Integrity and Safeguarding
Jump to next article
