Children and Young People Who Witness Family Violence
Advocates for Children and Young People Who Witness Family Violence Initiative
This initiative provides for up to 45 full time advocates who work with community organisations who support children and young people aged 0 to 17 who experience or witness family violence. There are currently 20 advocates employed and we plan to have the remaining positions filled by the end of 2009.
Voices of children and young people who witness family violence are often not heard, understood, assessed, or responded to. It is now accepted that children and young people are affected by violence going on around them even if they are not physically hurt.
The initiative will ensure the needs and interests of children and young people affected by family violence are identified and addressed. Advocates are based in non-government family violence agencies. They provide community organisations independent consultancy advice and assistance to educate families and communities, and raise awareness about the impact of family violence on children and young people. The Advocate will support individuals and agencies who work directly with children and young people affected by family violence.
Jigsaw is a national organisation that advocates on behalf of children and young people against all forms of child harm, neglect and family violence. Jigsaw has been selected to establish and manage the national infrastructure to provide leadership, training and support for advocates and host agencies.
This programme is part of a nationwide focus among family violence prevention agencies to improve responses to children and young people who are affected by family violence.
» For more information contact Anne Mohi on (04) 916 3422 or email violencefree@familyservices.govt.nz.
