Published in association with Otago University Press

The purpose of this article is to explore the psycho-social dimensions of women's experiences of working as refuge advocates, and to identify the detrimental impacts of providing support services. The article highlights how valuable refuge advocates are in providing intervention services for abused women. There has been little research conducted in New Zealand on how refuge work impacts on the lives and experiences of women. The purpose of this article is to explore the psycho-social dimensions of women's experiences of working as refuge advocates, and to identify the detrimental impacts of providing support services. The article highlights how valuable refuge advocates are in providing intervention services for abused women. There has been little research conducted in New Zealand on how refuge work impacts on the lives and experiences of women. Nine women's refuge advocates from the Pakeha caucus were interviewed about their experiences. The methodology draws on feminist standpoint and narrative theory. Four themes emerged from the narratives: relationships with other service providers, working for the Women's Refuge movement, being an advocate, and myths and misunderstandings about Womens' Refuge. Refuge advocates spoke of detrimental effects on their family life, emotional stress, their relationships, and aspects of the job that are emotionally damaging. However, these effects are mitigated by positive experiences that support women continuing refuge work. This article suggests that the National Collective of Independent Women's Refuge (NCIWR) should provide an organisational context where issues are addressed.

Women's Studies Journal 20(1) 2006 : 32-47