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550 days ago

Keeping the ‘right door’ open for survivors of sexual violence

The Team from Momentum Waikato

Victim-survivors of sexual violence don’t want to talk about what’s happened to them, so it is critical they can safely tell their story once, and once only, to get the immediate help and ongoing support they need.

“The first door they knock on has to be the right door,” says Dr Kate Taylor, Trust Chair of the Midlands Sexual Assault Support Service (MSASS).

“Victim-Survivors don’t have the capacity to advocate for themselves, you can’t send them elsewhere, they won’t make a second call. Our service ensures they get support, without having to repeat themselves.”

The need for MSASS services is significant - sexual violence is much more prevalent than most people believe. The most recent New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey says that 78,000 adults, some 1.9% of the adult population, one in fifty, had been subjected to sexual violence in the last year.

The percentages are even higher for some population groups, particularly young women, and these numbers don’t include children and youth. The overall rate of victimhood is not believed to be growing but the numbers seeking help is steadily increasing.

“The numbers suggest there cannot be one person in this country who does not know someone affected, whether we’re aware of it or not,” says Simone Molenaar, the Chief Vision Officer at MSASS.

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More messages from your neighbours
4 days ago

Looking for Kefir grains

Viola from Taupo Central

Hello, I was wondering if anyone knew somebody who I can get kefir grains off for making my own water kefir? Thank you.

2 days ago

Poll: Is the increase in disability parking fines fair?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

In October, the fine for parking in a designated mobility car park without a permit has jumped from $150 to $750—a 400% increase!

The goal is to keep these spaces open for those who truly need them. Do you think this big increase in the fine is fair? Share your thoughts below.

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Is the increase in disability parking fines fair?
  • 89.3% Yes, it's fair
    89.3% Complete
  • 9.8% No, it's unreasonable
    9.8% Complete
  • 0.8% Other - I'll share below
    0.8% Complete
2272 votes
12 hours ago

Just dough it

The Team from Resene ColorShop Taupo

With three basic ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can give old containers new life with Resene testpots.

Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.

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