Distribution of $10.4 million for specialist sexual violence services

The Ministry of Social Development has announced how the $10.4 million in new operating funding for sexual violence services over the next two years will be distributed.

The funding will be targeted in two tranches:

1. Community-based harmful sexual behaviour treatment services, quality service delivery for male victims and those who access medical/forensic services ($1.7 million per annum). Discussions with these groups are currently underway.

2. The short-term stabilisation of specialist sexual violence services ($3.5 million per annum). This is specifically for crisis and emergency counselling services. This is a closed application process for agencies currently funded by government to provide services for survivors/victims of sexual violence.

If any specialist sexual violence service providers have inadvertently been missed from MSD's invitee list, MSD would like to hear from them. Contact MSD directly on 0800 777 100 to discuss eligibility.

There will be some remaining funds set aside to address any further funding gaps. MSD says it will be working through criteria and processes for this phase of funding over the coming months, and will work closely with other agencies to ensure an all-of-government approach to the funding. For any queries, call 0800 777 100.

Further information is available on the MSD website.

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