Big strides made for Deaf survivors of abuse

The group is responsible for providing perspectives and insights from the Deaf community to the Board of the Survivor Experiences Service.

The advisory group will review policies and provide advice to ensure that the Service meets the needs of the Deaf community.

Alongside this, the advisory group will contribute to educational resources and New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) signs being developed, relating to what abuse in care means for the Deaf community.

“This is a really important step for both the Deaf community and the Survivor Experiences Service,” says Executive Director of the Survivor Experiences Service, Karl McDiarmid.

“Giving power back to survivors is an important focus for the Service, and the appointment of the Deaf Advisory Group is making significant strides towards this for the community.”

The Deaf Advisory Group aims to reflect all areas of the Deaf population. This ensures accurate representation and includes a range of perspectives from Māori, Pasifika, Rangatahi, and LGBTQIA+, MVPFAFF+  and Takatāpui (Rainbow) Deaf Survivors.

Alexandra Carr, Deaf and Disability Engagement Lead for the Survivor Experiences Service, will guide the Advisory Group. Membership of the group is endorsed by the Board.

The Survivor Experiences Service extends a warm congratulations to all those appointed to the Deaf Advisory Group.

Members: Whiti Ronaki, Milton Reedy, Jon Tai Rakena, Nicola (Nikki) Dawson, Ryan Cassidy, Sam Te Maari, Jaime Randhawa.

Alexandra Carr, Whiti Ronaki, Milton Reedy, Jon Tai Rakena, Nikki Dawson, Ryan Cassidy, Sam Te Maari, Jaime Randhawa and Karl McDiarmid (not in photo order) at the first meeting of the Deaf Advisory Group for the Survivor Experiences Service.