There’s a political fight going on at the moment that seems to be mostly about parties trying to score points and discredit opponents. This, sadly, is a typical political sideshow where parties point fingers and the public are pawns.

The real scandal that should be given far more attention is the disgraceful levels of underfunding of the Women’s refuges around the country.

It’s sad that we need refuges for women, but we do. They help women and children under severe stress. The Women’s Refuges themselves are under severe financial stress, and the staff have very stressfull jobs.

Politicians should focus on the real problems more.

Women’s Refuge: How we are funded

Women’s Refuge is a not-for-profit charitable organisation. Between 50 to 60 percent of our work is funded by government. The rest of our income is raised through fundraising, events, philanthropic trusts and bequests. We rely on generous donations from members of the public, businesses and other private funders and trusts to offer essential services that help women and children every day.

How you can lend a hand

Please, make a donation now to help us continue our important work preventing and stopping the abuse of women and children in our country.

About us

We are a women’s organisation for women and their children, here to help prevent and stop family violence in New Zealand.

If you are experiencing any form of abuse in your family or your relationship, or know someone who is, there are many ways we can help you – for free, and confidentially.

We’d love to help whether you have children or not. Women’s Refuge can:

• talk to you if you’re worried about your safety in your relationship and help you make a Safety Plan
• provide a safe place to go to if you need help urgently
• help you stand up for your needs whether or not you are thinking about leaving.

We are an independent, bicultural community organisation and have support services designed especially for children, young people, Māori women, Pasefika women and migrant and refugee women. We also assist lesbian women, older women and women with disabilities.

You can contact us at Women’s Refuge to get help and advice about talking to friends or family members you worry are being abused emotionally, physically, sexually, spiritually or financially.

And there’s a good case for some sort of men’s refuge facilities too.