New services for children who see family violence

A new $12 million service is being set up to help children who witness family violence.

Child Youth and Family Minister Ruth Dyson announced the funding at a National Foster Care conference in Wellington today.

She said the funding would go to ensuring the needs and interests of children affected by family violence were appropriately handled.

"The service will focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of children who witness violence within families," Ms Dyson said in a statement.

"It is essential that children are safe, well supported and able to access child-focused services."

Forty-five child advocates will be based in communities around the country.

Child advocates will work with children getting family violence services from non-governmental organisations and the government agencies.

Their role will be to:

* educate about the effects of family violence on children;

* ensure all agencies respond to children's needs;

* advise and consult with people working one-on-one with children; and

* offer specialist assessment and refer cases for counselling etc... when necessary.

- NZPA