He Taonga Nga Tamariki

The VOYAGE (Valuing Ourselves Youth Activities Group Education) programme is a nine week, after school programme for children (aged 5 – 11 years) who have experienced any form of abuse.  The aim of the programme is to break the cycle and secrecy of abuse by providing children with positive experiences on which to build their self esteem.

Groups are limited to eight children of similar age and development and each group is run by two trained facilitators.  The programme is run each school term. The programme is offered free of charge and transport can be provided within Palmerston North if required.  VOYAGE operates in Palmerston North and Levin.

The programme covers the following:

• What is abuse
• Domestic violence
• Good and bad touching
• Anger and safe ways to express it
• Safety Plans
• Personal strengths

The programme offers children an insight and understanding of abuse and builds on children’s self esteem and confidence, fostering trust and healthy relationships.  We explore different feelings that arise for the children as a result of their experiences.  Attendees are encouraged to express themselves through the use of puppets, stories, clay, paint, and other fun and interesting activities.  

A whānau/caregivers group runs alongside the children’s group, providing support and information.  This gives caregivers the opportunity to support each other by sharing child-related concerns, needs and resources.  It also gives caregivers information about the content of the children’s group.

Please contact us for more information.