The intention of our program is to build the communities awareness of the impact of trauma, to increase social support for trauma survivors, and ultimately improve outcomes. We will do this by actively being a voice for trauma survivors, advocating for their human rights and empowering them to speak out for justice and healing.

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In Te Whare Tapa Wha a Maori model of wellness social support(whanau) anchors and strengthens us to cope in a crisis. Research indicates that social support plays a significant part in improving outcomes for trauma victims and survivors.

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We have three streams to our advocacy approach:

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1. Individual support for trauma survivors: To express their views, wishes and concerns,to make choices and know their rights, to provide information and support to access social services and to provide understanding of the process in reporting sexual abuse to the Police, support in reporting and navigating the justice system.

2. Community support for trauma survivors: Provide online advocacy support for trauma survivors, online advocacy resources and public advocacy to the community, social services and government departments over issues that improve outcomes for trauma victims/survivor.

3. Advocate development: One to one mentorship for emerging advocates from experienced HEAlnz advocates,the opportunity to attend monthly HEALnz mentorship trainings, training in a Trauma informed Te Whare Tapa Wha approach and a strong ethical and legal foundation to trauma work.
    

https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/populations/maori-health/maori-health-models/maori-health-models-te-whare-tapa-wha

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2921311
 

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/15299730903502946

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