Dr John Church talks about battered women.

Dr John Church, Senior Lecturer in Education at Canterbury University and spokesman for the Christchurch Battered Womens' Support Group, talks about the problem of violence against women.

With his wife Doris, he has written booklets advising battered women on their rights, and the course of action they should take if they feel they're in physical danger.

The Christchurch Battered Womens' Support Group operates a telephone counselling service around the clock, seven days a week. Dr Church speaks about the support booklets, one of which is dedicated to the memory of Kay van Olfen (?), who was killed by her estranged husband. He speaks about the role of the police in handling cases of domestic violence.

An item from Radio Canada International is played. It is about a safe house ('Hiatus House') for women; the cycle of domestic violence; and a new program to help men who have abused their wives address the problem. Dr Church comments on the item.

He then speaks about police handling of domestic violence, and how and when they prosecute, and the appropriateness of this. He then talks about the booklet "The Police and You" which advises on actions which are offences, and those which aren't offences under the law. The example of marital rape is given - at the time of the interview, this is only an offence if the husband and wife are separated and living in separate residences. If they are living together, it is not possible to charge the husband with rape, no matter how brutal the assault.

He speaks about the role of observers, and the obligation of others to report violence to the police if they witness any.

There is then discussion about the issue of battered women returning to the men who have abused them. Often women stay in violent relationships because of children, and social pressure to stay together. He says women often feel trapped in abusive relationships out of fear of what might happen.

The Christchurch Battered Womens' Support Group runs counselling services, but doesn't directly provide a refuge service. However the group works with other groups and private individuals to provide accommodation for women who need it.

There is discussion on a letter included in the booklet "The Police and You" written by a woman who was dissatisfied with the police response to her case. He then speaks about another booklet put out by the group, this one directed at the legal profession and politicians, titled "Listen To Me Please". The booklet recommends ways in which the law regarding domestic violence should be reformed. There is presently a domestic violence bill before parliament.

The recording ends with light music and a back-announcement.