7406 (2024). Hon Dr Duncan Webb to the Minister for Children

7406 (2024). Hon Dr Duncan Webb to the Minister for Children: What particular programmes or actions (if any) is the minister and/or the department undertaking to protect children who are resident at the Gloriavale Christian Community?

Hon Karen Chhour: I am advised that: • Oranga Tamariki works with Gloriavale across both the government and non-government organisation (NGO) sector. The primary focus of Oranga Tamariki is the safety and wellbeing of children and young people in Gloriavale, the context of their whānau/family. • Oranga Tamariki has worked with agencies over the years to help build child protection systems within the community, to educate and support parents and community members around children’s rights, and to respond to specific concerns when they arise. This support has enabled Oranga Tamariki to develop a regular presence in the community and to maintain important relationships. A Social Worker works within the community up to 3 days a week and is available to meet with families without appointments or the need to go through Gloriavale leadership. • Homebuilders, a local community agency, are engaged with Gloriavale. Homebuilders provide social work support, parenting programmes and home-based help, and tailor their work to meet the needs of children, young people and their families in Gloriavale. • A child protection policy has been developed for the Gloriavale community with the support of Safeguarding Children (a child-safety focussed social service provider). This policy ensures there are standards set to protect the children and young people of Gloriavale and support their wellbeing across all areas of the community. This work also established a steering group and a child protection team. The child protection team meets weekly and is made up of a senior social worker from Oranga Tamariki and child protection leads identified within the community. The leads are trained in child protection matters and meet regularly with Oranga Tamariki social workers to discuss any worries and concerns about children within the community. • There is a secure drop-box on site enabling members of the community to leave anonymous notes for Child Protection Leads if they have any concerns about children or young people.