Tautoko Mai Sexual Harm Support was established in 2010 by a group of doctors and nurses to care and support clients in the area of sexual assault. The organisation saw a 31% increase in its crisis service in 2019/2020 from the previous year, with a 226% increase since the crisis service started in 2016.
THAT’S A CONSIDERABLE INCREASE. GOING FORWARD, WHAT IS TAUTOKO MAI’S VISION?
As well as providing services that focus on supporting those who have experienced sexual trauma, in the last 12 months the team at Tautoko Mai have started their journey toward ending sexual violence and now play a significant role in prevention and education in the local regions.
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT TAUTOKO MAI?
I’m the Quality Assurance and Social Change Leader, so there are two parts to my role. The first part is ensuring Tautoko Mai’s work is professional, timely and effective. The second is working with systems, organisations and groups to bring about a change to our culture to eliminate the conditions that mean sexual violence even occurs.
WHAT SERVICES ARE OFFERED BY TAUTOKO MAI?
We provide medical services for people who have experienced sexual harm, including forensics, GP and paediatric clinics. We also have a crisis counselling and social work service, and provide longer-term therapy through ACC. Our newer prevention team delivers the Mates and Dates healthy relationship programme in secondary schools and educates and raises awareness around issues of sexual harm and sexuality.
SEXUAL HARM IN THE WORKPLACE HAS BEEN GETTING A LOT OF MEDIA ATTENTION RECENTLY. CAN YOU ELABORATE ON THIS?
Yes and we see workplaces really struggling with how to respond well to allegations. It’s costing a lot in staff turnover and productivity and has real reputational risks.
CAN OUR READERS VOLUNTEER THEIR SERVICE, DONATE OR HELP IN ANY WAY?
We’re currently recruiting for Mates and Dates facilitators – people can apply through our website for this paid, casual role. Help and voluntary assistance is also greatly appreciated and we welcome financial donations. Call us on our toll-free number 0800 227 233.
