Children have the right to live free from violence

Family Violence is understood to include any and all forms of threat or intimidation that occur within families; including physical, sexual and emotional abuse.

The Advocate aims to:                        

• Provide an independent voice for children and young people who are affected by family violence
• Ensure the needs and interest of children and young people who experience family violence are identified and addressed
• Ensure that people working with children and young people and their families  recognise and address their needs
• Build secure collaborative working relationships with key agencies
• Increase public awareness of the impact of family violence on children and young people through education, information and advice to schools, agencies and individuals
• Inspire individuals, organisations and communities to take responsibility and action to keep children safe, secure and care-free
• Ensure the rights of children and young people are upheld at all times
• Child advocates are the voice that continually asks, “What about the children?”

Who can access the service?

• Children and young people aged 0-17 years who have concerns around family violence
• Parents, caregivers and family members
• Social service agencies and organisations that work with children and young people who may experience family violence

Philosophy & Values

Children’s safety is our responsibility as a community. Children and young people’s voices should be heard. Their views and opinions should be sought and listened to.

Our commitment to the Treaty of Waitangi is fundamental. We recognize that children and young people belong within their own culture and ethnicity, and their needs should be identified and addressed in this context.

Children and young people should be able to access services that meet their needs and develop their strengths in a safe and nurturing environment.

Please feel free to contact the Child Advocate for more information:

Ninon Kirchner
Advocate for Children & Young People experiencing Family Violence
Christchurch Methodist Mission
PO Box 5416, Christchurch 8542
tel (03) 375 1470
fax (03) 352 3398
email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Children come first and we are their voice