Courageous woman speaks Out
by Lydia Brewer
A West Auckland woman has spoken out about the taboo issue of sexual abuse, in an effort to bring about support for other survivors.
Kathy Needham, who founded support group Courageous Women in 2005, thinks that sexual abuse should no longer be tolerated in our society, and intends to see that survivors are given the encouragement and help they need.
Kathy is herself a survivor of sexual abuse, and feels the issue should no longer be ignored.
Her support group meets to talk and provide support for each other through fun and educational activities, as well as hearing from guest speakers.
But Kathy has far bigger ideas for her group.
“I want to reach the public with the positive message that although sexual abuse is rife, we can make a difference and help stop the cycle of abuse.
“Most of all, we want survivors to know that they’re not alone. Not only do they have the support of the rest of the group, they have the support of the community as well,” she says.
On top of this message, Kathy intends to eventually provide financial support for other organisations for sexual abuse, as well as raising public awareness on the issue.
Courageous Women is holding a movie preview of Elizabeth, The Golden Age this month, and Kathy has already received exceptional support from the community and organisations. The event sold out within a week.
“With the help of companies like Lucie Boshier, SkyCity Cinemas, Paramount Pictures and The Wine Fund we are able to take our message to all of Auckland, and eventually, the rest of New Zealand,” she says.
“We have received overwhelming support from businesses and the community” says Jane Sissons, who is helping to organise the event.
“We didn’t realise how much everyone is behind this issue until we started asking. The response has been overwhelming.”
The preview of Elizabeth, The Golden Age will be held on October 30th at the SkyCity theatrette on Symonds St.
To contact Courageous Women or to make a donation, please email [email protected].