Victims at heart of family violence response
Victims at heart of family violence response
Friday, 4 July 2014 - 2:18pm
Proposed improvements to the way New Zealand responds to family violence underline Police’s commitment to put victims at the centre of everything we do, says Acting Assistant Commissioner Prevention John Tims.
Next year Police will begin a two-year trial of safety alarms so people identified as being at the highest risk of victimisation can call for help at the touch of a button.
Police will also explore the potential of using frontline officers’ smartphones to record evidence which can be used in court.
John says Police is absolutely committed to working with its justice sector partners to explore a range of initiatives which address family violence and support victims.
“The Police focus on prevention puts victims at the centre of everything we do and it’s vital they’re kept safe, connected to appropriate services and receive the best support,” he says.
Police will trial 50 safety alarms, which will work on mobile phone networks where available and with satellite technology elsewehere.
“Our communities should not tolerate family violence and we all have a part to play in ensuring the most vulnerable in our communities are kept safe,” says John.
“In this time of Matariki, of new beginnings, maybe it’s also a time for all families to pause and reflect, seek help for themselves, for others, for victims and for offenders.
“Family Violence can be reported at any time and it’s important for the public to know that Police takes complaints of this nature very seriously and has dedicated and specialist trained staff who work to assist victims and their families.”
Go to beehive.govt.nz for more about the proposed initiatives.