A formative evaluation of the Waikato Family Safe Network Pilot

Abstract

Family violence (FV) is a significant issue in New Zealand. Where it is present, it has significant implications for all family members but women and children typically bear the greatest costs to their health and well‐being. Family violence is largely hidden from view and thrives in the privacy enforced by the abuser. This makes it important to maximise the chances of effective intervention when it does come to notice. To be effective, such interventions often need to be multi‐faceted to address the diverse and sometimes complex needs of the various family members. At the same time, the interventions need to be aligned, focused on common objectives. Therefore, interagency collaboration is imperative for effective, comprehensive intervention.