This report in one of five from the Ministry of Women's Affairs' Sexual Violence Research Project, a two-year project carried out in partnership with the Ministry of Justice and New Zealand Police. The other four reports from this project are: - Responding to sexual violence: A review of literature on good practice - Responding to sexual violence: Attrition in the New Zealand criminal justice system - Responding to sexual violence: Environmental scan of New Zealand agencies - Responding to sexual violence: Pathways to recovery.

This report provides an overview of research from a two-year project led by the Ministry of Women's Affairs in partnership with the Ministry of Justice and New Zealand Police. The report identifies major themes that have emerged from four interrelated research streams. Drawing on international research but with a focus on New Zealand, the report concentrates on what works for adult survivors of sexual violence from the three systems that are most likely to respond to victims of sexual violence: informal and formal support systems, and the criminal justice system. The research findings indicate that the responsiveness and effectiveness of each of these systems can be enhanced through collaboration and linkages within and across systems. A key finding of the research is that survivors with a history of repeat sexual victimisation are particularly vulnerable to sexual violence and have high and complex needs. Cases involving victims from these vulnerable groups, if reported to the police, are least likely to proceed through the criminal justice system and result in conviction. Overall, the research highlights the value survivors placed on expert interventions in promoting recovery, particularly counselling and specialist sexual violence services. Survivors also value culturally appropriate and accessible services. Informal social networks are often the first potential point for ensuring early and appropriate interventions through formal support systems and the criminal justice system. The report identifies that there are particular gaps in knowledge about outcomes for survivors who try, but are unable, to find appropriate help. Use the Other reports link for other MWA reports about sexual violence and its work on increased safety for women.