Photo: NZ HeraldLouise Nicholas says the government may be scrapping her role supporting victims of sexual violence, but it won't stop her from doing the work. Between now and when her contract ends in June 2021, she plans to set up the Louise Nicholas Trust - which she said would continue her work with abuse survivors. He said the Ministry was spending $6.348 million, that was announced in Budget 2019, to provide support through a Court Support Service. "However, Oranga Tamariki does not fund separate, dedicated 'court support services' for all children and young people that have experienced sexual harm. National's social development spokesperson Louise Upston said while it was good to see new regional roles, the National Sexual Violence Survivor Advocacy was needed as well.

Source: Otago Daily Times August 23, 2020 06:45 UTC