10 May 2023 - 0 Comments

SoundCheck Aotearoa launches a new core service, available to all people affected by sexual harm in Aotearoa’s music community. Additionally, SoundCheck Aotearoa announces official formation as a charity. The organisation has been operated by a small group of industry professionals with other roles in Aotearoa’s music community with the help of independent specialists.

Recently SoundCheck Aotearoa brought Project Manager, Anna Loveys on to deliver an 18-month project funded by the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, which includes the Sexual Harm Prevention and Response Advisor (SHAPRA) service launched today.

The SHAPRA service was developed in response to initial consultation with members of our music community, where the need for independent professional advice was heard loud and clear.

This free service is a safe and confidential channel for accessing specialist advice, consultation, support and advocacy where appropriate, working with you to develop a solution for any situation you may face.

Melanie Calvesbert takes up the role of SoundCheck Aotearoa’s first-ever SHAPRA, bringing over 25 years experience supporting people affected by sexual harm in Aotearoa. Working for a number of organisations, Mel was most recently National SAPRA (Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Advisor) for the New Zealand Defence Force, delivering a similar program to their community.

Since September 2022, Mel has worked alongside the music community delivering Professional Respect Training with Independent Sexual Harm Prevention Specialist, Rachel Harrison. Mel brings their skills of working in a survivor-focused, safe and confidential way to provide this service alongside SoundCheck Aotearoa.

The Sexual Harm Prevention and Response Advisor (SHAPRA) is available to:

· Anyone who has experienced harm

· Concerned friends and whānau, bystanders, colleagues, and members of the public who have engaged with someone working in the music community

· Businesses and workplaces responding to a situation

· Businesses and workplaces seeking advice on how to prevent harm from occurring

· Anyone who has done harm or is accused of harming someone.

Read here for how to contact the SHAPRA, and for FAQ regarding the service.

Comments

Return to News Archive