Red Raincoat NZ Trust

Providing Aid and Rehabilitation to Victims of Homicide

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Statement of Purpose from Rita Croskery

Rita Croskery is the mother of Michael Choy murdered by a group of youths in 2001

Red Raincoat NZ Trust is a very important organisation for Victims of Homicide

It will provide a network of people to comfort and support each other through the tragedies that have touched their lives. To be able to talk with others who you know truly understand the torment, heartache and pain, and sometimes anger, which surfaces in waves at various times. It remains buried deep within you forever after; because nobody wants to talk about murder, to be able to relax and be at ease and not have to put on a brave face for the benefit of others.

It is also healing to be able to help others who find themselves in a similar situation; there is an immediate bonding and empathy.

After my son's murder I was not receptive when approached by Victim Support, but had it been from someone who had walked the walk, I feel sure I would have readily accepted their help. It would have been a comfort to us to have someone to explain the ongoing Police investigations, court proceedings, legal terminology, parole, media frenzy and publicity.

Someone to ensure that victims know their rights and entitlements and ensure they receive them, to advise the importance of attending all the court hearings and the trial, making submissions to see that justice is done, and if they feel it is not, advise where they can seek help.

Someone to know that you are not alone in this situation, to be a friend, to offer advice and support when required.

Rita Croskery

Comments from others in support of the formation of this Trust

Susan Couch Sole survivor of the RSA murders
"An organisation (supporting Homicide victims) that is run efficiently and administered well in this country is vital. I have battled on my own, while trying to get my life back in some sort of order. A trust like this would mean victims/survivors would get some sort of help! And hopefully no-one would fall through the cracks."

Ross Cormack father of 6 year old Teresa abducted and murdered in 1987
"Back in 1987 there was very little in the way of support in an official capacity for the victims of these heinous crimes. It is clear that very little has changed in the 17 years since my daughter Teresa was abducted and murdrered. The need of a strong support network, emotional as well as financial, is very obvious and necessary. It is the intention of RRT to provide assistance, and it has my full support. I look forward to working within RRT to help provide the support so desperately needed."

Val Hargreaves mother of Jenni, murdered in 2001
"Time spent with families who have been through the same tragedy was very emotional for me. I came away from a very informative weekend feeling shattered by the pain and anger caused by our Justice system to people that don't deserve any more hurt. To hear about the formation of RRT was the highlight. I will endeavour to support the Trust in any way I can."

Steve Caldwell CEO Victim Support
"There is certainly a very big gap for specific help for murder victims from people who have been through it before."

Bruce Shadbolt CIB Detective Inspector
"What it will hopefully provide is real life support to those that are victims of homicide from people who have been down that road. I think it is quite important for someone to be able to talk through what it's like to be thrust into the spotlight for all the wrong reasons."

Wendy Ball NZ Parole Board
"The pain in the room was palpable - people who feel as if they aren't being heard. I think it is a really necessary thing, and if we can slowly move the machinery to a point where it is less cumbersome for them then I think the Parole Board has to try and help."

www.redraincoat.org.nz