31 March 2016

Huge win for sexual violence survivors and services today

The Government’s decision to accept all recommendations from a Select Committee inquiry initiated by Green Party MP Jan Logie is a huge win for sexual violence survivors and those working to help them, the Green Party says.

The Government has today released its response to the recommendations of the Social Services Select Committee, following an inquiry into sexual violence services sparked by Green Party women’s spokesperson Jan Logie. The Government has accepted or broadly accepted all 32 of the committee’s recommendations.

“This is an enormous win for the victims of sexual violence and for those working to help them, who have endured a severe lack of funding for far too long,” Ms Logie said.

“It is a huge relief that the inquiry I initiated, with the help of the committee chairman Alfred Ngaro, will see real change in sexual violence services for victim survivors.

“I look forward to a substantial budget increase in this year’s Budget, and for the Government to collaborate with the sector to deliver a new model.

“While indications are good overall for the sector, the Government qualified their support for three important recommendations: accessible services, remuneration for staff, and strengthening existing kaupapa Māori services. I will be continuing to advocate for these crucial outcomes.

“Over the past two years the committee heard how the victims of sexual violence have gone without the help they need.

“Instead of being funded properly, vital services like Rape Crisis and Women’s Refuge have had to cut hours and reduce services as their funding was cut or not increased to meet demand.

“I have been out collecting for Rape Crisis today for their annual appeal, but the survival of services should not rely solely upon charity.

“We look forward to more collaboration, more money, and better services for victim survivors,” Ms Logie said.

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