New peer support group programme for sexual harm
Have you experienced sexual harm? Are you looking for extra support on your journey of healing?
RISE is now offering group programmes for men and women who have experienced sexual harm.
Funded by ACC, these programmes help fill a critical gap in services in Te Tauihu (the top of the south) where there are few opportunities for peer-based group support for sexual harm.
RISE Impact & Business Development Lead Leigh Manson says the new group programmes are designed as extra support and to complement – not replace – individual counselling.
Leigh says each 10-week programme will create a safe, structured environment where participants can develop practical skills alongside peers who share similar experiences.
“One of the things we’ve heard quite explicitly, and what prompted us to develop these programmes, was how alone people who have been sexually assaulted feel. There aren’t support groups for people to share their experiences and heal with others that understand,” Leigh says.
While one-on-one sessions focus on personal trauma and healing, the evidence-based group programmes provided by RISE will support healthy relationship development, build emotional regulation skills, and increase understanding of intergenerational patterns that are difficult to fully explore in individual therapy alone.
“Group therapy helps clients build self-awareness, emotional resilience, and better relationships, often increasing their engagement in their individual therapy and reducing the risk of harm to themselves and others.”
The programmes are tailored for clients who have Sensitive Claims with ACC, but RISE is also keen to hear from people without claims who would be interested in participating.
“The programme is trauma-informed, specifically designed for people with sexual harm experiences, and delivered in a culturally responsive way in Te Tauihu.”
Leigh says trained RISE Clinicians, with additional ACC accreditation, will deliver the new programmes which are called Ngā Parirau – The Wings of Healing and Hope. Parirau means wing in te reo Māori.
The group programmes aim to be a place where, “sheltered under the wings of others, you can rise from the past, find new strength, and ultimately soar into a future defined by healing and hope”.
RISE has run successful and very well received group programmes for men and women in the family violence sphere for years and knows the group can be a very powerful place for change and healing.
RISE’s group programmes consistently receive positive and powerful reviews. Participants report feeling safe and supported at RISE. Other feedback themes reflect the impact RISE aims to have – safer homes, stronger parenting, deeper insight, cultural belonging, and hope.
The Ngā Parirau programmes for men and women will start in March 2026 and comprise 10 two-hour sessions. Groups are limited to 10 people, and the programmes have different focuses for men and women to meet their different needs.
“Trauma impacts your relationships and your parenting styles and approaches, and that’s unpacked and explored with others in a supportive group environment.”
RISE is offering new peer support group programmes for people who have experienced sexual harm.
More about the programmes
Non-Violence and Safety Programme for Men - Parirau Tāne:
For men who have experienced sexual harm and struggle with anger management and violence in relationships.
Key focus areas include understanding the link between unresolved trauma and current behaviours, developing emotional regulation strategies, and building healthier relationship patterns. Participants will gain tools to manage anger constructively while taking responsibility for their actions and their role in protecting future generations.
Safety and Relationship Programme for Women - Parirau Wahine:
For women who have experienced sexual harm and face challenges maintaining safety in relationships, managing intense emotions, and parenting effectively.
Key focus areas include recognising safe versus unsafe relationship dynamics, rebuilding self-worth, setting and maintaining boundaries, and developing effective self-care strategies. The programme provides practical tools for breaking free from cycles of harm while supporting participants' healing journey.
· If you are interested in finding out more, or joining a March 2026 programme, contract your lead provider if you have a sensitive claim with ACC.
· If you don’t have a sensitive claim with ACC, but are interested in these programmes contact RISE support@rise.net.nz.
· If you are a provider with a client this programme could support contact The Nelson Clinic.