29497 (2024). Hon Willow-Jean Prime to the Minister for Children

29497 (2024). Hon Willow-Jean Prime to the Minister for Children: What impact, if any, does the Minister consider that staff wearing uniforms may potentially have on their ability to develop therapeutic relationships with children and young people in Oranga Tamariki facilities?

Hon Karen Chhour: I am advised that a requirement for staff working in a residence to wear a uniform is an approach to enhancing health and safety within the environment, which benefits both staff and the young people. I am advised that Oranga Tamariki do not consider uniforms to be a barrier to developing effective relationships with young people. Officials are currently consulting with residences staff and unions on the use of uniforms across the secure residence network.