Help@Hand

Help@Hand is a groundbreaking initiative providing discreet emergency watches to women at high risk of sexual and domestic violence. Invented and developed by Sir Ray Avery, a woman who has finally left her abuser is given a watch. When she is confronted by her abuser and put in immediate danger of a beating, or worse - death, a button on the watch is pushed which connects directly to the Police, ensuring a rapid average police call-out time of four minutes.

Domestic violence victims are most at risk within the first 24 hours of leaving their abuser. Many live in fear, unable to leave home, go shopping, or even take their children to school. The Help@Hand watch gives them the confidence and freedom to move around safely, knowing help is instantly available.

Already deployed across New Zealand to many women, via Family Violence / Sexual Violence (FVSV) Networks, this technology is empowering victims, protecting frontline workers, and preventing violence before it escalates. While millions are spent on traditional domestic violence programmes, Help@Hand provides a practical, immediate solution that is already making a huge difference in these victims' lives.

Sir Ted Manson, through the Ted Manson Foundation, is the major funder of Help@Hand, funding its rollout across New Zealand. He believes in backing practical solutions that deliver real results, and his funding ensures more watches reach those who need them most. However, Help@Hand needs more funders to ensure Sir Ray can provide watches for each of New Zealand’s 43 FVSV Networks, prove their worth, and secure Government funding.