Workshop focus:

In partnership with the 2DHB (CCDHB & HVDHB), in this session, Westpac will outline the approach and the principles they apply when supporting customers experiencing family or domestic violence.

Westpac recognises that all of their customers are individuals who need help in different ways, at different times, and believe in providing a level of extra care and sensitivity in the way they serve and support customers experiencing vulnerability; including family or domestic violence.

The speakers will talk through the support available from the bank/banking system for someone who may need help in protecting or strengthening their financial independence and managing their finances safely during all stages of an abusive relationship. This includes around the point of leaving an abusive or unsafe situation, as well when rebuilding for a more secure long-term future.

This workshop will benefit those who want to understand their own financial rights and options, particularly as economic abuse and harm is a growing concern in Aotearoa. The workshop will also be beneficial for staff supporting victim/survivors. This is open to all 2DHB staff as well as community partners and NGOs.

About the speakers:

Cat and Louisa from Wespac will facilitate this session.

Cat has vast experience in the banking industry both here in Aotearoa New Zealand and the UK. She has led teams within the commercial and consumer space and is currently the Head of Consumer Banking for Central Region at Westpac. In this role, Cat is responsible for the Westpac branch network from Wellington to the Bay of Plenty. Outside of work she is kept busy by her four teenage girls.

Louisa leads the Westpac Extra Care programme – driving initiatives that support their most vulnerable customers, including those impacted by family and domestic violence. With over 14 years’ experience in the banking industry, both here in Aotearoa New Zealand and in Australia, Louisa is passionate about helping customers.

To join us virtually, please register and use this link: https://3dhb.zoom.us/j/86426109755

A light lunch will be provided. Registration essential for attendance.

This workshop is a part of a series of talks and events facilitated by Capital & Coast and Hutt Valley DHB as part of the United Nations annual international '16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence' Campaign. For details of other events related to the 2DHB campaign, please visit:

29 Nov: Strangulation in the Context of Intimate Partner Violence – Wellington https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/200624572497

30 Nov: Should we be worried about economic abuse and harm? https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/200548755727

1 Dec: Strangulation in the Context of Intimate Partner Violence – Hutt https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/205413345847

6 Dec: Let’s talk about traumatic brain injury in the context of family violence https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/200642756887

8 Dec: What’s the link between suicide and gender-based violence? https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/200650269357

Westpac: How banks can help family violence survivors