Victim Support
Free, nationwide support for people affected by crime, suicide and traumatic events.
We are here for you, 24/7.
We work in partnership with approved registered counsellors to provide counselling support to victims of some crimes.
There are five counselling schemes which are administered as part the Victim Assistance Scheme (VAS).
Counsellors must be approved and registered with Manaaki Tāngata | Victim Support before we will refer clients for counselling.
Fatalities: Available for family, whānau, close friends, prosecution witnesses.
Serious physical injuries: Available for primary victims and prosecution witnesses.
Counsellors, psychologists, psychotherapists, and other health professionals who wish to be considered for the role of a Manaaki Tāngata | Victim Support approved registered counsellor must meet specified criteria.
Criteria for becoming an approved registered counsellor for us includes:
Hold a current annual practising certificate (APC) with a recognised professional body such as NZAC/NZPA/ANZASW/DAAPANZ. Other relevant areas of expertise such as social work with counselling components; child play; music therapy or traditional Maori or Pasifika therapies etc. will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Undergo initial police vetting initiated by Manaaki Tāngata | Victim Support.
If approved as a Manaaki Tāngata | Victim Support registered counsellor, you must agree to:
Continue to belong to a professional body
Send a copy of your new Practising Certificate each year
Only charge Manaaki Tāngata | Victim Support the agreed fee and not make any additional charges to the client
Not exceed the approved number of counselling sessions
Liaise with Manaaki Tāngata | Victim Support employees on matters related to the administration of the Victim Assistance Scheme (VAS)
Applications are processed as they are received and there is no closing date. It may take between 3-6 weeks to process your application due to the New Zealand Police vetting process.
To apply, please complete the Counsellor Registration Form, attaching relevant documentation below.
A photocopy of your current practicing certificate is acceptable.
You must also provide evidence of your identity:
You must also provide evidence of your identity by including:
A copy of your Aotearoa New Zealand driver licence or your current Aotearoa New Zealand passport.
