67898 (2024). Tamatha Paul to the Minister for Children

67898 (2024). Tamatha Paul to the Minister for Children: What specific measures or steps, if any, is the Minister taking to ensure the military-style academy pilot is trauma-informed?

Hon Karen Chhour: I am advised by Oranga Tamariki that the design and delivery of the Military-Style Academy Pilot includes a trauma-informed care model led by a Senior Psychologist and supported by a Clinical Advisory Group. This involves understanding the experiences of the young people and their whānau, and considering these experiences in the context of their behaviour and needs. Staff were supported with training on trauma and working in a trauma informed way to best support their practice. The design of the programme itself offers a structured and predictable environment, built upon by therapeutic interventions. Experienced psychologist and psychiatrist clinicians have been consulted and are included in the External Reference Group, which continues to inform the implementation of the pilot.