Amy Adams
Wellington, August 2, 2017
More than 2200 people affected by family violence have been able to stay safe in their homes thanks to the success of the National Home Safety Service launched two years ago.
Practical Measures
The NHSS makes victims homes safer from attack with practical measures such as installing tougher locks, security lights and monitored alarms.
In the last two years, it has made a measurable difference to the lives and security of hundreds of victims of serious family violence.
No one should have to live in fear of violence in their own homes.
That is why we introduced the NHSS which has enabled more victims and their children to stay in their homes with a significantly reduced risk of serious physical harm.
Government Contract
The service is delivered by the National Collective of Independent Womens Refuges as part of a three-year $3.6 million government contract.
In its first two years, the service has made 648 homes safer.
This has benefitted 648 adult victims and 1240 children, as well as 314 other adults living in those homes including family and whnau, friends and flatmates.
Other practical measures offered by the service include repairing broken windows, cutting back vegetation and putting victims in touch with other agencies that can help.
The NHSS is one part of the Governments plan to reduce family violence and keep victims safe, overseen by the Ministerial Group on Family Violence and Sexual Violence.
Homes made safer, by region
Northern (north of Auckland) | 48 |
Auckland | 308 |
Midlands (Waikato south including Taranaki and Hawkes Bay) | 113 |
Central (south of Midlands including Wellington) | 51 |
Southern (South Island) | 128 |
TOTAL | 648 |
Amy Adams is Justice Minister of New Zealand.