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At Stop, we’re here to help.
We offer free and confidential services for children, adolescents, and adults who are displaying concerning or harmful sexual behaviours.

Established as an Incorporated Society in 1988, Stop has dedicated over 30 years to supporting individuals, whānau, and communities across Te Waipounamu (the South Island) in pursuit of our vision: “community free from sexual harm” - He hapori wātea taitōkai. 

Stop partners with agencies in the North Island: Wellstop (based in Wellington and covering the lower North Island) and Safe (based in Auckland and covering the upper North Island).

Our compassionate, highly skilled team of clinicians provide trainings, consultations, community-based assessments and interventions, ensuring support is available across Te Waipounamu

If you or someone you know needs support, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

What is harmful sexual behaviour?

"Harmful sexual behaviour includes any sexual activity where someone hasn’t freely agreed to take part. It can involve pressure, threats, or physical force. It also includes situations where there’s an unfair balance—like when one person is much older, more emotionally mature, stronger, or has more power or authority than the other."

What is concerning sexual behaviour?

"The sexual behaviour seems unusual for the child or young person’s age and doesn’t feel mutual or shared by both sides. However, with the right support and guidance, they are often willing to change their behaviour. Every situation is different, and it’s important to look at the full context of each case to understand what’s really going on."

What is concerning sexual ideation? 

Concerning sexual ideation (CSI) refers to when someone has sexual thoughts or fantasies, are planning or taking their first steps towards sexually harming another person and wants to prevent this.  While having these thoughts doesn’t mean a person will act on them, it’s important to get support to understand and manage them safely.