Sharing Your Story with Run Against Violence

We know that personal stories can be powerful. They help people recognise domestic and family violence (DFV), feel less alone, and learn how to support others. We welcome story submissions that contribute to a safer, more informed community.

To protect everyone involved, including you, we have a few important guidelines. These are not here to limit your voice, but to make sure your story can be shared safely and constructively.

1. Your Safety Comes First

• All stories must be anonymous.
• Do not include your name, or the names of anyone else involved.
• Avoid details that could identify you or others, such as workplaces, schools, small communities, or unique circumstances.
• Do not include specific locations. Keep references general, for example “a regional town” rather than naming it.
• If you include images, they must not show identifiable people, places, or personal details.

If there is any risk that someone could recognise you or others from your story, we will not be able to publish it.

2. Respect for Others

• Do not name or identify other people, including alleged perpetrators, family members, or professionals.
• Avoid details that could indirectly reveal someone’s identity.
• Keep the focus on your experience and what others can learn from it.

3. No Active Legal Matters or Unproven Allegations

• We cannot publish stories that refer to cases currently before the courts.
• Stories must not include unproven allegations about identifiable individuals.

This protects both you and our platform.

4. Your Story Should Help Others Learn

We are not just sharing stories. We are building understanding. For that reason, your story needs to offer a clear takeaway for the reader.

Ask yourself:

• What might someone learn about recognising DFV from this story?
• Does it show how someone can respond safely or seek support?
• Does it help others understand how to support someone experiencing DFV?

Stories that include reflection, insight, or lessons learned are much more likely to be published.

5. Editorial Review and Approval

• All submissions are reviewed by the Run Against Violence (RAV) committee.
• The committee has final say on whether a story is published.
• We may edit stories for clarity, safety, and alignment with these guidelines.
• Any story published without approval may be removed.

To have your story reviewed, please reach out to us via the Contact page.

6. If These Guidelines Feel Restrictive

We understand these boundaries can feel limiting, especially when your experience is deeply personal. If you feel you cannot share your story within these guidelines, it may be worth considering whether our platform is the right place for it.

There are other spaces where you may be able to share more openly, depending on your circumstances.

7. Our Commitment

Our goal is to:

• Amplify voices safely and responsibly
• Protect the wellbeing of contributors and the community
• Share stories that educate, empower, and create change

If your story can do that while meeting these guidelines, we would genuinely value your contribution.