Centre of family and sexual violence prevention faces workforce reduction

The Centre for Family Violence and Sexual Violence Prevention could lose a third of its workforce under a proposed restructure, prompting concerns about the future of New Zealand's efforts to tackle family violence and sexual violence, according to multiple media reports. 

The board overseeing the centre has proposed reducing the number of roles from 78 to 52, resulting in a net loss of 26 positions. The changes would involve disestablishing 36 roles, including six currently vacant positions, while creating 10 new roles.

Board chair Andrew Kibblewhite acknowledged the impact the proposal would have on employees involved in the sector, reports mentioned.

"I firstly want to acknowledge the impact that this change proposal will have on the staff who are involved in this incredibly important work," he said.

The proposal was presented to staff on Wednesday and follows a review of the current needs of the family and sexual violence prevention system. According to Kibblewhite, the review examined how resources and efforts could be directed to achieve the greatest impact for victims and survivors, as mentioned by HRD.

"These are complex issues that require a strong, joined-up approach across government. No single agency can do this alone, and effective co-ordination is essential."

Kibblewhite added, "I am confident the proposed changes will strengthen how the system works together and help us deliver better outcomes for those experiencing family violence and sexual violence.”

"It's important to note that this proposal has not been driven by cost savings but to ensure all our resources are focussed on making the biggest difference with this very important mahi,” further said.

The Centre for Family Violence and Sexual Violence Prevention plays a key role in supporting the government's National Strategy and Action Plan on family and sexual violence through cross-government coordination.

However, the proposal has drawn criticism from the Public Service Association (PSA), which represents workers at the centre and has confirmed it will make a formal submission opposing the changes, according to RNZ.

PSA National Secretary Duane Leo said, “New Zealand has a shameful record on family and sexual violence. This is exactly the wrong moment to be cutting the people working to change that," Leo said.

Leo expressed concern, "It's hard to understand how a sharply reduced workforce is expected to deliver co-ordinated national leadership on this issue. How can the plan be effective now when the Centre responsible for it is going to be gutted?"

According to Leo, national trainers, advisers, managers and administrative staff are among those affected by the proposal. He also said a team that works alongside providers and whānau to build local capability would be dismantled, while three specialist national trainer positions focused on family violence and sexual violence would be removed.

He warned that such changes would reduce support available to community organisations working on the frontline of prevention efforts.

He also pointed out, "Community organisations like RespectEd are getting results. They need more support, not less.”

"Family and sexual violence is an intergenerational challenge. Building the capability to respond effectively takes years. Cutting a third of the national co-ordination workforce does not just set back progress, it shows that this vital work is no longer a priority,” he continued.

Consultation with staff is now underway. The board expects to make a final decision on the proposed restructure by the end of July, with any approved changes scheduled to take effect in September.