Source: Human Rights Commission
The Disability Commissioner welcomes the government’s announcement of funding to strengthen violence prevention for diverse communities.
The Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence and Sexual Violence Marama Davidson earlier today approved five funding grants to support national-level family violence and sexual violence prevention initiatives for LGBTQIA+ people, disabled people, older people, and new migrant communities.
Paula Tesoriero says she is pleased to see $350,000 go towards programmes to address systemic barriers faced by disabled people and strengthening a safeguarding framework for tāngata whaikaha Māori, Deaf and disabled people.
‘I’m particularly pleased the Safeguarding Adults from Abuse (SAFA) response in the Waitematā, a programme to safeguard adults at risk, will receive funding. This is something I, and others in the disability community, have recommended, so I’m satisfied to see the government take action’.
‘We must do all we can to strengthen leadership in the disabled community. Safeguarding is a particularly effective approach which protects human rights and puts people at the centre.
‘While the amount is modest it’s a good first step – allowing the programme to develop and grow in effectiveness. I hope this signals a firmer commitment to a national approach and more secure long-term funding’.
Paula Tesoriero is releasing two reports into violence and abuse of disabled people on December 1.
‘These reports paint a picture of violence and abuse which has reached epidemic proportions and is a serious breach of the human rights of tāngata whaikaha Māori and disabled people.
‘There is no shortage of information to back this up. We know disabled people are more likely to experience crime across all types of offences including interpersonal violence and sexual assault’.
These reports will outline ways in which this serious issue can be addressed.
