Implementation of ACC sexual abuse guidelines should stop

ACC Minister Nick Smith should admit he got it wrong on cutbacks to counselling for sexual abuse victims and scrap their implementation, says Labour’s Victims Rights Spokesperson Lynne Pillay.

“Nick Smith has today announced a clinical review of the new process, but not for six months.

“A review in six months will force victims to take part in a cruel experiment in cost cutting that will re-victimise those who have already suffered enough,“ Lynne Pillay said.

“What Nick Smith should do is admit the new process is not in the best interests of victims and scrap its implementation,” Lynne Pillay said.

“Clinicians, counsellors and victims have all said the new guidelines will potentially harm victims of sexual abuse, so why is the Minister refusing to do anything for six months?

“The current guidelines should remain in place.

“Nick Smith has conducted a shoddy and shambolic campaign of misinformation about counselling for sexual abuse victims that has caused considerable distress to people who have already suffered significantly.

“Today a petition signed by around 4000 victims, clinicians, counsellors and members of the public was delivered to Parliament asking the Minister to halt his decision to introduce cuts to counselling services.

“Unfortunately neither Minister for ACC Nick Smith or his Associate Pansy Wong could make the time to hear from those directly affected by the changes the National Government is introducing.

“I urge the Minister to start listening to clinicians today, he doesn’t need to wait six months,” Lynne Pillay said.

ENDS

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