Te Manawa agency expands to the city

SUPPORT: Mayor Grant Smith, Jonathan Wallace, mayor Margaret Kouvelis and Julie Miller discuss the new premises. PHOTO: ALECIA ROUSSEAU

It's no secret domestic and family violence is a growing issue for our city.

The Guardian recently reported Palmerston North police respond to 40 domestic violence incidents each week.

But what about those working behind the scenes?

Te Manawa Social Services has recently expanded their organisation, moving from Feilding to Palmerston North. The social agency holds contracts from the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Social Development for non-violence programmes.

They offer 16-week long courses tailored for both men and women and can include up to 20 participants at one time. Clients can be referred through the courts or other services, but they may also self-refer.

Te Manawa Social Services general manager Julie Miller said the organisation had decided to move to Palmerston North in an effort to reach the wider community.

"We've been operating in the Manawatu since 2000. Now with these contracts we can provide family support programmes in both cities and we are working with the Department of Corrections."

The organisation held a celebration afternoon tea last week in their new building on the second floor of The Grand, to thank those involved with the move.

"Today is an opportunity for us to thank Jonathan Wallace (landlord) who donated $30,000 towards the refurbishments," Ms Miller said.

Manawatu mayor Margaret Kouvelis, who is a member of the social agency's board, said the new premises reflected what they had always envisaged.

She said the agency was one of very few in New Zealand that had delivered their services to such a high standard.

Palmerston North mayor Grant Smith thanked Ms Miller and said it was wonderful to see the agency put down roots in the city.

He said, though he knew very little about the organisation, he was sure they would make a "great deal of difference" in a challenging sector.

Te Manawa Social Services, Second Floor, The Grand. Open Mondays 1pm - 5pm, Tuesdays 1pm - 2pm (with appointments) and Wednesday to Friday 8.30am - 5pm.