About us
We HELP individuals and whānau affected by sexual harm to move forward
Who we are
In 1985, Wellington HELP was established as a not-for-profit organisation to provide specialised support to individuals, whānau and communities affected by sexual violence. In 2005, we set up offices in Porirua and Kāpiti to make our support more accessible for survivors up the coast.
Our vision
For a better future.
Our mission
We whakamana survivors of sexual harm on their healing journey.
Our Values
Together, we strive to create safe spaces for all individuals, whānau and communities.
Changing the rules
We believe that organising conversations about sexual harm with national and regional community groups, sharing our expertise to educate, and influencing public policy can make a difference.
Inclusive support
We believe in a support available for everyone, no matter their gender, sexuality, age, ethnicity etc. Our wide range of services, made to meet the needs of individuals and whānau, is inclusive and will always be.
Growing together
We believe in the sustainability and integrity of Wellington HELP – growing our skills and knowledge together, learning from each other.
Our services
If you need immediate HELP, call our 24/7 line or if you’re in danger, call 111.
It is important to us that anyone affected by sexual violence receives the HELP they deserve. That’s why we offer a range of services, depending on what you need. Of course, you can access all of them – or just one. We’re here for you, no matter what kind of support you’re looking for.
We provide non-stop support services to survivors of sexual violence through HELP's support line. This line is open to anyone needing help about recent AND past sexual harm.
You can contact us at any time on 0800 FOR HELP (0800 367 4357) and press 0 at the menu.
To contact reception, call us on 04 801 6655 between 9:00am and 4:00pm, and press 1 at the menu.
Our story
November 13, 1984
First meeting is held to “establish within the Wellington area a center to provide holistic care for victims of sexual abuse."
1985
HELP’s offices move from the Marriage Guidance Counselling rooms to the Wellington Women’s Hospital.
1986
HELP begins seeing clients in the Porirua region through hiring out Marriage Guidance Counselling rooms. / HELP to date has supported over 110 women and children. / HELP hosts its first ever AGM.
1987
HELP raises over $100,000 in pledges from a Radiothon.
1989
HELP begins offering support to parents of abused children.
1994 / 1995
Reporting finds in this year alone HELP has supported over 1440 clients. / Lack of funding threatens to shut down the organisation, multiple pleas are made by HELP to the media.
1997 / 1998
HELP receives $60,000 for pilot funding from Central Health. / HELP drops its after-hours service due to funding cuts, protests are discussed.
2011
HELP, Wellington Rape Crisis, & WellStop collaborate to create the Wellington Sexual Abuse Network and prevention (renamed RespectED).
2014
The Sexual Violence Sector receives a $10.4 million dollar funding boost over the next two years, relieving some funding pressures for HELP.
2019
HELP supports over 730 clients in this year.
2020
HELP raises over $11,000 at a fundraiser event at Government House. / HELP’s offices move from The Education House to the CBD.
2022
HELP now has two therapy dogs working with clients. / The government announces a $114.5 million budget over four years to prevent and respond to family violence and sexual violence across Aotearoa.
Help us make a difference
Your donation helps us meet the ever-increasing demand for our services. Because the need never stops, neither can we. Your support means we can be there for survivors and their loved ones when they need us. You truly make a difference.