Collaborating for change: New evaluation shows ISR is making homes safer, faster
17th of May, 2026
Integrated Safety Response (ISR) is a collaborative initiative uniting key Canterbury agencies, including the New Zealand Police, Oranga Tamariki, Te Whatu Ora, and various government ministries. Partnering with the Department of Corrections, local iwi, and specialist services like Aviva, this multi-agency collective provides an immediate, coordinated response to family violence. By working across the sector, ISR ensures that both victims and those using violence receive timely, essential support.
Recent findings from an evaluation of ISR Canterbury have provided some incredibly encouraging news. The data confirms that this collective mahi is making a genuine, measurable difference for local whānau. Most notably, the evaluation highlighted that families are feeling safer much faster. By providing clearer, more reliable responses from agencies, the programme has successfully reduced fear and increased the physical safety of homes across the takiwā.
Key findings:
- The work delivers strong value, with every $1 invested returning more than $4 in social benefit, especially through reduced harm and better outcomes for Tamariki.
- Having one trusted practitioner who holds the plan really matters - it builds trust, reduces re traumatisation and helps whānau navigate systems more easily.
- Tamariki are better protected, with more stability at home and less exposure to violence.
Coupled with kaupapa Māori approaches that strengthen engagement, these collaborative efforts are ensuring that support is not only consistent but deeply relevant to the people who need it most.