Richmond stars Dustin Martin, Trent Cotchin and Kane Lambert have laid bare the hidden darkness being felt by children and young people as a result of COVID-19 restrictions.

The trio feature in a new campaign video launched by the Club, along with its preferred charity partner the Alannah & Madeline Foundation, aiming to Light the Darkness on family violence and online bullying for our most vulnerable young Australian’s.

Families have spent an increased amount of time together at home due to various levels of lockdown, but sadly this has also seen an increase in reports of first-time family violence. Front line support services and emergency accommodation centres have been inundated, but the fear is that many more are suffering in silence.

The need for children and young people to spend more time online for things like education and digitally connecting has also seen abusive online behaviour, including cyberbullying, increase by 40 per cent.

“No matter the crisis there is no place for bullying and violence,” Cotchin said.

“Donate today and help Light the Darkness for our most vulnerable children before it’s too late.”

All donations, including 100 per cent of proceeds from Richmond Alannah & Madeline Foundation memberships will help provide vital care for these children in crisis.

Richmond CEO Brendon Gale said that the Club’s partnership with the Alannah & Madeline Foundation, which has raised over $1million since forming in 2012 was continuing to keep children safe.

“Our children are our future and in this incredibly difficult time they need our support more than ever,” Gale said.

“We are proud to partner with the Foundation to raise awareness around these important messages, and to assist in raising much needed funds so the issues of violence and bullying that are affecting our kids can be prevented.”

The campaign will lead into Richmond’s Round 17 game against Geelong, which will be the Club’s annual dedicated fixture to the Alannah & Madeline Foundation.

Alannah & Madeline Foundation CEO Lesley Podesta said that purchasing an Alannah & Madeline Foundation membership, beanie or making a donation can mean the difference between children being able to live safely or not.

“You truly are contributing towards providing a light of hope for many who find themselves in a dark place because of family violence or bullying,” she said.

“At this time, when so many children and families are struggling, your support is needed more than ever.”

Donate today at amf.org.au/footydonate

If you or anyone you know needs access to support services, please visit amf.org.au/support-services/ to find out more. Alternatively, if it is an emergency please contact 000.