Articles tagged with Oranga Tamariki

Showing 6 of 21 articles

New Zealand Minister for Children Achieves Historic Reduction of Harm in State Care Residences

Minister for Children Karen Chhour announced a historic 14% reduction in harm within Youth Justice and Care and Protection residences in New Zealand, attributing the achievement to investments and practice changes. The focus on safety and well-being, including enhanced training, recruitment, and facility improvements, has been a priority for Oranga Tamariki under her leadership. These efforts align with the recommendations of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in State Care, reflecting a commitment to preventing harm and prioritizing the safety of children and young people in state care.

Christchurch Care Residence Upgraded for High Needs Children: Te Oranga Reopens with Therapeutic Focus

Te Oranga Care and Protection Residence in Christchurch is being upgraded and reopened to provide therapeutic, trauma-informed care for children with high and complex needs. Admissions were paused in 2021 due to staffing issues and underinvestment, but the residence will resume operations after undergoing significant infrastructure improvements. Minister Karen Chhour highlights the government's commitment to enhancing care for children, emphasizing the importance of professional standards and investments in facilities to ensure a safe and supportive environment for at-risk youth.

Minister Karen Chhour Reports Success in Youth Offending Reduction Efforts

Minister Karen Chhour notes a significant decrease in serious and persistent youth offending since June 2024, attributing the improvement to a tough yet fair approach and increased unity within communities and government. The reduction in youth offenders has led to safer communities, with lower rates of ram raids and repeat offending, as well as improved collaboration between Oranga Tamariki and Police. Investments from Budget 2025 aim to further reduce re-offending and enhance support for young serious offenders, prioritizing community safety and victim well-being.

Empowering Communities: Updates on Family Violence Prevention and Child Welfare Initiatives

The Minister for Prevention of Family and Sexual Violence and Minister for Children acknowledges key individuals and organizations in the field. Updates are shared on Te Aorerekura, the Oranga Tamariki Action Plan, and efforts to address trauma and prevent violence. The government is focused on improving multi-agency responses, workforce capability, and effective commissioning and investment processes to better support vulnerable children and families. Collaboration, communication, and social investment are emphasized to enhance service delivery and support community well-being.

Minister Karen Chhour Urges Caregivers to Provide Safe and Loving Homes: Enhanced Support Available

Minister Karen Chhour urges individuals capable of offering a loving and stable environment to consider becoming caregivers, emphasizing improved support and training. Budget 2025 allocated $16 million to enhance care environments and caregiver training. Initiatives include caregiver feedback incorporation, improved on-boarding processes, and prioritizing safe and loving homes for children.

Dr. Ang Jury Appointed Chair of Independent Children’s Monitor Board: Enhancing Oversight for Vulnerable Kiwi Kids

Dr Ang Jury, ONZM has been appointed as the Chair of the new Board for the Independent Children’s Monitor, a key oversight body for the Oranga Tamariki system. This appointment is a significant step towards fulfilling commitments to vulnerable children, as highlighted by Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston. Dr Jury's expertise in the social and Oranga Tamariki sectors will be instrumental in establishing the new Board, with her five-year term beginning on August 1, 2025.