Broken link removed 26/9/2012
http://www.awc.org.nz/userfiles/16_1175053387.pdf?PHPSE

This report discusses an evaluation of a support programme for young mothers in the Auckland metropolitan area. The central focus of the programme is to support and educate young mothers (aged less than 20 years of age), and to reduce the incidence and re-occurrence of family violence. The programme consists of a free seven-week support group course that runs for two hours every week, and an advocacy support service. The evaluation includes a literature review and utilises data obtained through semi-structured interviews, a review of programme documents, and programme observation. Key benefits identified by the programme evaluation include: increased social contact; information on support services, and rights concerning women and children; parenting information; personal development gains, and time out to obtain this. It was also noted that the programme was beneficial in terms of young mother's work and study outcomes, on-going support, and relationship violence prevention. The group sessions and individualised advocacy assistance were reported as having the most impact in terms of preventing violence. Strengths of the programme, issues in the implementation, and suggestions for further development, are also discussed.