(We currently only have advocates available for men's services. More services will be added as they become available.)



What is a Crisis Response Advocate (‘CRA’)?

A CRA's job is to respond to an immediate need that you have when you aren't sure what to do or where to get help. The need is generally urgent, requiring immediate intervention and practical support. It might be that you are a victim of domestic violence and need to leave your home, or you are in trouble because of personal problems that may have started when you were a child and become bigger than you can handle. The CRA will provide direct services to plan, inform, and refer clients to the appropriate services for their needs, and will make themselves available to be with the client wherever needed for at least 7 days.


What sort of things does a CRA help with?
Your advocate will take appropriate steps to deal with whatever crisis you are facing. You may need immediate legal support, housing or income assistance, or victim support - your CRA will assess your needs and plan and act accordingly.


When is the service available?
Crisis response services are available 12 hours a day, 7 days a week.


Where is the service available?
Crisis Advocacy Services are currently available between Auckland and Taupo, but is looking to expand services to cover the North Island by June 2023. If you live outside that area, you can still get in touch, but we will need to talk about how we can intervene. We may need to find alternate advocacy services for you in your area.


Who needs this service?
Men have very few options in terms of trauma-informed crisis intervention. This service addresses those limited options.


How can I get help from this service?
You can access this service at any time by contacting Steve (Crisis Response Coordinator) using the details below. On weekends, the service may be very busy, so leave a message or contact us by sending email to Black Ribbon directly. Once we're in contact, your immediate needs will be assessed, and you will get some support very quickly.


How long will the service support me?
You may find that whatever has caused your need to use the service has other effects on your life, and you notice that there are mid- and long-term needs that also need to be met. Your CRA will help you to consider other needs or goals you may have and will assist you to get support for those too. How long is the piece of string that runs through your life? That's how long you'll need your CRA. Your advocate will help with anything that supports your empowerment to live well.




Advocacy Services are made possible by our Waikato sponsor:


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