Editorial: Violence destroys more than families

Abuse does not end when the bruises heal or the court case closes. It leaves scars that often shape lives for decades. Children raised in violent homes frequently carry trauma into adulthood, affecting their mental health, relationships, education and ability to contribute fully to society.

The family is the foundation of every nation. When that foundation is fractured by violence, neglect or abuse, society eventually pays the price. We see it in broken homes, substance abuse, crime, depression, suicide and generations struggling to break cycles they did not create.

Governments can build schools, hospitals and roads, but repairing broken people is far more difficult and costly. Social workers, teachers, police officers, healthcare professionals and faith-based organisations all become part of the long and complex process of rebuilding lives damaged by violence at home.

This is why preventing abuse must become a national priority rather than a private family matter. Strong families produce resilient communities, while broken families place an enduring burden on the state.

Protecting the family unit is an investment in the nation's future, because the cost of repairing broken men and women exceeds the cost of preventing the harm.