Sensitive Claims Service

Support for people affected by sexual harm

At Family Start, we understand that reaching out for support can feel difficult. You do not have to go through this alone.

Our Sensitive Claims Service provides compassionate, trauma-informed support for people who have experienced sexual harm. We work gently, respectfully, and at your pace, with your safety, wellbeing, and choice at the centre of everything we do.

We know that every person’s experience is different. There is no “right” way to feel, and no “right” time to ask for help. Whether something has happened recently or many years ago, support is available when you are ready.

How we can help

Our Sensitive Claims Service offers access to trained professionals who can provide support to help you with the emotional and psychological impacts of sexual harm.

Support may include:

• counselling

• psychological support

• social work support

• help to understand the process and what support options are available

• support that is tailored to your individual needs and circumstances

We aim to provide a service that is kind, respectful, and responsive to you as a whole person.

A service centred around you

We take a trauma-informed approach, which means we recognise the impact trauma can have and work in ways that promote safety, trust, choice, and empowerment.

When you access our service:

• you will be listened to without judgment

• you can go at a pace that feels right for you

• you will be treated with dignity and respect

• your voice and choices will be valued

• we will work with you to find the support that best meets your needs

We also recognise the importance of whānau, culture, identity, and community in healing and recovery.

Who this service is for

This service is for people who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual assault, or sexual harm.

You may be seeking support for the first time, returning to support after a break, or looking for someone to walk alongside you as you begin the next step in your healing. Wherever you are in that journey, we are here to help.

Accessing support

Taking the first step can feel overwhelming, but we will do our best to make the process as gentle and straightforward as possible.

When you contact us, we can:

• talk with you about what support you are looking for

• explain the process in a clear and supportive way

• help connect you with an appropriate provider

• answer any questions you may have

You do not need to have everything figured out before reaching out. A simple first conversation is enough.

Our commitment to you

We are committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive service for all people. We honour the dignity and worth of every person and aim to create an environment where people feel heard, respected, and supported.

We know that healing is not linear, and we respect that each person’s journey is their own. Our role is to walk alongside you with care, compassion, and understanding.

Contact us

To find out more about our Sensitive Claims Service, or to take the first step in accessing support, please contact us, or complete the referral form.