Statement from Women’s Refuge in relation to the Government Initiatives announced today – July 2nd

Women’s Refuge supports the Prime Minister taking a stand about domestic violence today, however, is concerned that the initiatives he proposes will still not address an ‘epidemic’ of domestic violence.

“We look forward to hearing the details of these initiatives especially around the Justice Sector announcements today,” says Women’s Refuge Chief Executive Heather Henare.

“We had no warning or consultation around the shape of these, therefore from what little we have seen we have some concerns that these initiatives are geared towards the 18% of victims who report domestic violence to the police and the 5% who take up a Protection Order. We fail to see how this response today addresses the 80% of domestic violence that remains unreported to the Justice Sector.”

Ms Henare said a Symposium on Women and Children organised by Women’s Refuge in Auckland this Friday has attracted 200 people across the social spectrum. They will hear from seven political parties about their ideas and initiatives.

“At this event we will comment on the initiatives and clearly articulate our concerns and our ideas on what any government should be doing to stem the epidemic of domestic violence that we consider is happening in this country today.”

ends

© Scoop Media