29735 (2026). Kahurangi Carter to the Minister for Children

29735 (2026). Kahurangi Carter to the Minister for Children: What advice, if any, did the Minister receive regarding security guards being placed with children in care, as per page 22 of the Aroturuki Tamariki Experiences of Care 24/25 report?

Hon Karen Chhour: I have received advice regarding security guards from Oranga Tamariki on two occasions. • On 16 March 2026, my office received advice to inform my answer to WPQ 7674 (2026) which is now publicly available. • On 17 June 2026, my office received advice noting: “Oranga Tamariki does not permit security guards to be responsible for caring for children and young people. When we use security guards, it is only with others who are responsible for providing care. Our frontline kaimahi are aware that Security guards must never be used for care, supervision, transport, or as a substitute for Oranga Tamariki staff or caregivers.” I again ask the Member if she has any evidence of children in care being placed with untrained caregivers or staff, like security guards, to please provide this information to either myself or Oranga Tamariki so it can be addressed and we can make sure children are safe.