Ensemble readers will be well-aware of the incredible mahi done by Women’s Refuge across the motu, either by supporting the work it does or accessing its services. It’s also no secret that when a cost of living crisis hits, charitable services take a dip in funding donations. With this in mind, the Women’s Refuge has staged an installation in Pōneke’s Brandon Street to illustrate that the services their Safe Nights provide are so much more than a bed to sleep in. It officially opened last Thursday night to a crowd including Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau and Women’s Refuge ambassador Dame Miranda Harcourt.
Safe Night Beds is a pop-up bed shop comprising five bedroom set ups, telling the stories of women and children who have come through the other side of family violence with the help of the charity.
“This installation allows everyday New Zealanders to experience an inside view of our mahi through the words of those who have used our services,” Dr Ang Jury ONZM, chief executive of Women’s Refuge said in a statement. “A Safe Night, while crucial, is only the beginning. Our advocates help across a wide spectrum, ranging from help accessing healthcare and counselling, support with MSD and budgeting advice, obtaining a protection order and legal assistance, finding a place to live, and much more. There is so much time, care, and assistance each client needs, and deserves, to build a life of safety.”
1 in 3 women will experience abuse in their lifetime in Aotearoa, and on average just under 50,000 women and children are referred to Women’s Refuge each year.
Gift a Safe Night here - $20 provides a night of safety, security, hot meals and advice. This winter Contact Energy has pledged to match donations up to 1,500 Safe Nights, to the value of $30,000.
If you are in danger or in need of support, Women’s Refuge are available 24/7 on 0800 REFUGE (0800 733843). Please click here to find your local refuge or to live chat with an advocate.
