The Royal Commission’s reports into the abuse of young people in state care are shocking and important but we must acknowledge that the most dangerous institution in New Zealand are families. In fact, it’s a relatively small percentage of families. More damage is done to children by these families than by the state. Regarding the Read more
More children are being placed in state care in New Zealand as compared to a year ago — rising by 20 percent — figures obtained by 1News show. This increase has raised concerns among abuse survivors and child welfare advocates, with worries that it goes against advice put forward by the landmark Abuse in Care Read more
There is a worrying and “growing gap” in the care of at-risk children and young people. It exists between families with risks that are too complex for charities to manage – and the point where Oranga Tamariki will get involved. New Otago University research says a “clearer consensus” is needed as to when cases indicating Read more
Children in state care still need better support when the state sends them home. An Independent Children’s Monitor report, Returning Home From Care, looks at experiences and practices when children and young people’s parents care for them while in state custody. Report findings As at 30 June 2022, 627 children and young people in care Read more
Teachers and childcare staff aren’t taught how to spot child abuse. If they suspect – or even know – a child is being abused, it’s up to them to decide if they’ll pass on their fears to agencies. Both these things have to change, say child advocacy campaigners. They want teachers and daycare staff to Read more
The fact our children and youth are suffering increased abuse is sad and distressing, says Children’s Commissioner, Judge Frances Eivers. Eivers’ comment comes as abuse of New Zealand children in state care keeps increasing. Oranga Tamariki’s new Safety of Children in Care Report says almost 500 were harmed in 2020-21 alone. The reported statistics are Read more
Nearly 30 children have died in state care since Oranga Tamariki’s inception and an expert says the organisation has failed to deliver on its promises. Of the 27 children who have died since April 2017, five died by suicide, 15 from natural causes, five from accidents, and two as a result of child abuse, homicide Read more
Tens of thousands of reports of concern about child abuse in Hawke’s Bay have been made to Oranga Tamariki in the past five years, but less than 4 percent have been substantiated. The grim statistics were released to Hawke’s Bay Today under the Official Information Act for the years 2016 to 2021. The data covers Read more