Editorial: Mentor victims of abuse

Tauranga Women's refuge Manager Angela Warren-Clark. Photo/Ruth Keber

We've all heard about it, but it still isn't something which is often talked about.

Domestic violence affects so many people from all walks of life but it still seems like a taboo topic: if we don't talk about it, it doesn't exist.

Unfortunately, it is very real and for many victims of family violence it can shatter lives and leave lasting scars, mentally and physically, long after the abuse has stopped.

Tauranga Women's Refuge has signed on to New Zealand fashion designer Annah Stretton's latest initiative - Reclaiming Another Woman or R.A.W.

The project, which was piloted in the Waikato earlier this year, pairs abused women with a female mentor who helps them reach their goals.

The pilot programme has resulted in more than 70 matches after just six weeks.

I fully understand the need for this programme, not just in the Bay but everywhere.

When a woman picks herself up from the latest round of abuse, packs her bags and plucks up the courage to leave, what happens next?

Some of these women have nowhere to go and have lost all hope that things will change or get any better. Some are resigned to the fact that this is the life they chose and one which they will have to endure.

It is so important for these women to know that this cycle isn't their only option.

Gone are the days when people would turn a blind eye to abuse. There is help out there, you just need to know where to look.

Tauranga Women's Refuge manager Angela Warren-Clark described R.A.W as a "game changer" and urged Bay women keen to take part to get in touch.

They are looking for mentors for women who have managed to escape abusive relationships.

"We are looking for mentors who have travelled a different pathway in their lives than the women they will be matched with; happy, focused, capable, can-do women who know education is the game changer," she said.

Being a mentor involves a commitment of about one hour a week for a minimum of one year.

Considering what some of these women have been through, an hour a week isn't a big ask. I encourage Tauranga's strong, positive women to get involved and make a real difference in their community.

To find out more, contact the Tauranga Women's Refuge on (07) 541 1910.