National Collective Of Independent Women’s Refuges Inc.
Media Release – 4 September 2009

Refuge Applauds Maori And Pacific Family Violence Programme Of Action

Women’s Refuge says the Maori and Pacific Family Violence Plans of Action launched this week by Associate Minister of Social Development, Tariana Turia, are a clear step in the right direction.

Heather Henare, Chief Executive for the National Collective of Independent Women’s Refuges and a member of the Taskforce on Family Violence, said, “In her speech at the launch of these strategies, Tariana Turia spoke of the ‘potential of the people to be the navigators of their own journeys.’”

“This is very much in line with Women’s Refuge philosophy and practice. We are a grass roots organisation, implementing strategies and practices based on responsiveness to local community needs. ”

Denise Reynolds, Kaiwhakahaere for NCIWR, said “Within Women’s Refuge, we have seen great success in the implementation of strategies developed by Maori, delivered by Maori, to serve Maori. Our Mauri Tau strategy, adopted by eleven Maori Refuges across Aotearoa, is delivering some of the most innovative and effective family violence services in the country.”

“The programme of action launched this week has been developed by some of the most committed and experienced leaders in family violence prevention in this country. We applaud the fact that this initiative and leadership is informing and driving the Maori and Pacific strategies.”

Women’s Refuge is New Zealand’s most significant family violence organisation, with a 35 year history of providing comprehensive services for women and children

ENDS

© Scoop Media