Making Sibling Violence Talkable with Helpline 1712
Making Sibling Violence Talkable with Helpline 1712
Violence between siblings is often overlooked, despite being the most frequent form of family violence. Helpline 1712 called in our help to bring attention to this issue.
Instead of a traditional awareness campaign, we chose to focus on fostering open conversations about sibling violence, especially with those closest to children: parents, schools, student guidance centres (CLB), and more. To do this, we launched RAAR (Weird)—a book that presents various forms of sibling violence in a clear, accessible way.
The book serves as more than just a tool for starting conversations. By illuminating different types of harmful behaviours between siblings, it helps break down taboos, making it easier for adults to recognize and address these issues early on. This approach not only supports dialogue but also aims to enhance detection by providing a tangible reference for what may otherwise be dismissed as "just part of growing up."
Rather than blending into the background, the book stands out on purpose, symbolizing that sibling violence should never be normalized within family dynamics. Over 500 copies have been distributed to libraries and counseling centres throughout Flanders and Brussels, with additional outreach through posters, social media animations, and influencer-led discussions.
The goal is clear: break the silence around sibling violence and encourage proactive, open conversations.