Manaaki Tāngata | Victim Support provides free, 24/7 support services to help victims of crime, suicide and traumatic events across The West and nationwide. Offering emotional support, practical assistance and guidance, they help individuals through challenging times and connect them to any necessary resources.
‘We’re here 24/7 to help people in their darkest moments,’ says National Grants Specialist Denise Graham.
The registered charity was established in 1987 and has since expanded to become a nationwide service. Denise says that Manaaki Tāngata | Victim Support helps people, including whānau and witnesses, in times of crisis and through the justice system. All services are offered free and are available even if a crime is not reported to the police.
Victim Support offers practical assistance in addition to emotional support. For instance, they listen to victims and help them find ways to cope, such as providing information on support groups or arranging a safe place to stay. The specially trained team also helps people understand their rights and what happens next so they can make informed decisions. They can also refer people to specialist agencies, services, and counselling.
Navigating the court system can be challenging. Victim Support offers a helping hand throughout the process, whether a coroner’s inquest, court proceedings or parole hearing.
Victim Support wouldn’t be the fantastic organisation it is without the invaluable contribution of volunteers. These dedicated people are there to help victims, including evenings and weekends.
And thanks to the Your West Support Fund, Victim Support has recruited even more volunteers to work in The West. Denise says the $20,000 grant has gone towards recruiting new volunteers and providing specialist training in areas like family harm, suicide and homicide.
The number of local volunteers has now increased from 1.5 full-time equivalents to seven. ‘The new volunteers are aged from 22 to 74 and come from diverse cultural backgrounds,’ says Denise. Already, they are having a huge impact. Denise says that Victim Support helped over 1,200 people in The West affected by crime, suicide, or traumatic events from May to August 2024 alone.
More volunteers are urgently needed to continue this vital work. It’s an enriching experience. One volunteer, Carolynn, explains more: ‘The most fulfilling thing is being able to help and empower people in situations where they often feel vulnerable, traumatised and emotional.’
Why not become a volunteer and make a difference in your community? Helping others through Victim Support will not only impact their lives but also change yours. Visit the website for more information.
