People Experiencing Violence

Need help now?

If you are in immediate danger dial 111. If you are not in immediate danger, but need help call 0800 28 48 26 to speak to one of our team.

“Now I look forward to the future rather than fearing it.” - Aviva client

Aviva supports all people affected by violence to connect with their strengths and create a positive vision for a safer, fulfilling life.

Who can access support from Aviva?

Anybody, of any age who is experiencing (or has experienced) family and/or sexual violence, abuse, or harm can be helped and supported by Aviva.

We support people of all genders, faiths and ethnicities. We have services for adults, youth and children.

All of our services are free and available to all people who meet our criteria; you do not need to enter a Safe House or to have left your relationship to access our services.

How do I know if what I’m experiencing is violence/abuse?

You might not realise your relationship is abusive because there’s no physical violence. It’s important to know that abuse isn’t just physical. It can also be emotional, psychological, economic, or sexual. A major sign that something’s wrong is if you or your children feel fearful.

For more information and guidance, read 'what is abuse?' or complete the relationship check.

 

How can Aviva help?

Aviva can:

  • advocate and support you in gaining protection orders, accessing financial support, linking to Kainga Ora, and accessing support networks
  • assist you to upgrade the security of your home once the violent person has left
  • provide short and long-term support, depending on your needs
  • offer Courageous Steps, our Ministry of Justice approved education programme on family violence, to support you in making the changes you would like to make. More information here: education programme brochures
What can I expect from Aviva?

You should hear from us within 24 hours of your request, except on weekends when you may not hear back until the next business day. If you don’t hear from us, we may have tried to call but haven’t left a message because we want to make sure it’s safe to contact you.

Aviva offers high-quality support and intervention, including:

  • explaining your rights
  • clearly outlining our services
  • providing safety planning and support network information
  • advocating for you with other services
  • we usually meet clients at our Community Offices, but we can be flexible and meet elsewhere if it’s safe

 

Contact Us

  • Call us on (03) 378 3847 or 0800 28 48 26 - 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for people in Canterbury
  • Email [email protected] (this inbox is checked Monday-Friday, 9-5)
  • If you are a social service or other referring agency, please complete a referral form and forward to Aviva by email

 

Relationship Check - Quiz