14 Aug 2012

Rape Crisis may have to charge to survive

10:15 am on 14 August 2012

The social work and counselling service Wellington Rape Crisis says it could look at charging for its services if its financial situation doesn't improve.

A lack of funding has forced the service, which is in its 35th year, to close its doors on Fridays in an attempt to reduce its costs.

Manager Natalie Gousmett says if it continues to struggle, it could look at charging some clients who can afford to pay.

She says it would need to raise about $55,000 by next April to break even and stay open five days a week.

Ms Gousmett some staff are moving from full-time to part-time positions.

She says Wellington Rape Crisis is funded by community grants, as well as fund-raising and also by the Government.