Safer Families continues family violence message
As the new co-ordinator of Taranaki Safe Families Trust, Katy Wilson is looking forward to getting out in the community.
She takes over from Callum Williamson and intends to get involved in the community as soon as possible.
One of her main tasks will be to continue to spread the word that family violence is not OK. The campaign has been running for some time in Taranaki and Katy says she’s aware of how much work still has to be done.
‘‘I’ve been working at START Taranaki, which supports atrisk teenagers, for the last 18 months. There I worked with boys 14-18 who were in the Youth Justice system.’’
Katy said she thoroughly enjoyed her time with START, but it was time for a change.
‘‘I wanted to get out in the community and be meeting more people. I’m really passionate about fighting social injustices. This was a good chance for me to put all of my skills into practice. Taranaki Safe Families Trust is big on organisation. They’re creative and have really innovative ideas. So to join them was a great chance and I’m really grateful for the opportunity. ‘‘
Wilson said it was evident there was a problem with family violence, both locally and nationally.
‘‘I want to encourage everyone out there to be aware of the issue, to look out for those around you and if you know something isn’t right, then just ask the person if they’re OK.’’
Wilson said she was only too aware of just how hard it is to change that behaviour.
‘‘From my experience of working with youth, it can be so ingrained that it’s very hard to change. The majority of the boys had been in youth residences and violence was a big problem in their lives.’’
A lot of it, sadly, was learned behaviour. ’’That often meant the boys weren’t taught how to treat women. They just didn’t have positive male role models in their lives.’’
Wilson says she has fresh ideas and the ability to engage young people.
‘‘I’d like to get feedback from the community and people are welcome to contact me.
‘‘If I’m at an event and people recognise me, then please come and say hello.
‘‘I’m very approachable and I’d be keen to hear any ideas you have.
Email Wilson tsft@xtra.co.nz on: