Cash to tackle domestic violence a 'drop in the ocean'

Women's Refuge says a 20 per cent increase in its funding is a drop in the ocean, and the Government agrees it is underfunded.

A funding boost of $9 million for family violence prevention services was announced yesterday but it will be spread across many community organisations.

It has been acknowledged as "a good start" by anti-violence groups but when it is shared out most think it will not make enough difference to their situations.

Women's Refuge chief executive Heather Henare said today her organisation could use the whole $9m and needed at least $4m to cover its deficit.

Refuges get a total $4.5m a year, and their share of the $9m will mean a 20 per cent increase.

Ms Henare said pressure on refuges was increasing all the time.

"We're talking drop in the ocean stuff," she said on National Radio.

"There are other agencies out there in the same position, the $9m just isn't going to do it."

Ruth Dyson, the minister responsible for Child, Youth and Family Services, said refuges had been underfunded for a long time.

"Heather's right -- this alone won't fix it," she said. "But we are also putting money in to find out exactly what it costs to run the service."

The $9m, which will be in the May 18 budget, is spread over four years.

It will to go non-government community services providers such as 24-hour crisis lines, counselling, social work support, advocacy and information, as well as women's refuges.

The Families Commission said yesterday the amount of abuse and violence within New Zealand families was a "national shame" and it welcomed the extra funding.

"It recognises the strain these organisations are under as demand grows for their services," the commission said.

"However, they also need the certainty of ongoing and adequate levels of funding to make sure that families affected by violence get the support and help they need."

- NZPA