1 0CT0BER 2007

Figures Expose Just Part Of Violence In NZ

Women’s Refuge says the increase in violent crime in latest police figures helps show the true extent of the job facing groups working to combat domestic violence.

The Chief Executive of the National Collective of Independent Women’s Refuges, Heather Henare, says while some of the increase can be attributed to better reporting and more awareness, the figures in themselves are still a national disgrace.

“What we have to remember and that the police acknowledge, is that the crime reported is also just part of what is actually happening and that is certainly true in terms of domestic violence.”

Ms Henare says the message is still not getting through to many men that violence is completely unacceptable, and lives continue to be lost as a result.

“It is an absolute tragedy so many women and children are the victims of violence every day and it is taking a shocking toll on whanau.”

“Our refuges are working every day with women and children to break cycles of violence and ensure they can live free from the physical and psychological terror they are exposed to.”

Ms Henare says Women’s Refuge is committed to eradicating violence, but the increase in women and children it is dealing with continues to place huge pressure on resources.

“I applaud the initiatives being taken at a Government level, and the extra resource it is putting into many of its own agencies.”

“But if there is to be real headway dealing with family violence, and violence generally within New Zealand, then it must be done with an even playing field that ensures groups like Refuge are also adequately resourced to do our job.”

ENDS

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