Media Release 13 October 2008

Christchurch to host world Safe Communities conference

Christchurch will next week (20 to 23 October) host the 17th International Safe Communities Conference.

More than 500 delegates from throughout the world will attend the event, the theme of which is Working together to make a difference.

The conference aims to strengthen community safety as an integral part of national and international injury and violence prevention policy, research and practice, says 17th International Safe Communities Conference Chair Carolyn Coggan.

“This is the once a year opportunity for those working globally in the area of safety to come together to share the latest community safety initiatives in such areas as indigenous safety, suicide prevention, alcohol and other drug misuse, working in partnership to reduce crime, culturally diverse communities and water, sport and recreational safety.”

She says safety is a big concern for every community today; residents who feel safe in their homes and community generally have better health and well-being.

“This conference is being held for the first time in New Zealand and provides an ideal opportunity for local people to share in the global expertise and knowledge at the conference, as well as forging partnerships at both regional and global levels for future exchange of information, research and initiatives.”

Conference delegates will come from 28 countries and represent a wide range of organisations from local authorities, universities, World Health Organisation and government to research institutes, private enterprise and Walt Disney parks and resorts.

The conference, being held from 20 to 23 October at the Christchurch Convention Centre, is being co-hosted by the Christchurch City Council and Safe Communities Foundation New Zealand and supported by the World Health Organisation’s Collaborating Centre on Community Safety Promotion.

For further information check out the website: www.safecom2008.org.nz

ENDS

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