10. KATRINA SHANKS (National) Link to this
to the Minister for Social Development and Employment
What has the Government done to ensure children in State care can have a home for life?
Hon PAULA BENNETT (Minister for Social Development and Employment) Link to this
We have more than 5,000 children in Child, Youth and Family custody removed from their birth parents because it was not safe for them to be there. Every one of those children deserves a safe and secure home. Last week I announced a Home for Life package. This comprehensive package will support New Zealand families to provide a permanent home for life for a child in State care.
Hon PAULA BENNETT Link to this
There are over 2,000 foster carers currently, many of whom may be able to offer a child permanency. This package supports them to do just that. The Home for Life support package includes eight initiatives. A few of them are financial support of $2,500 up front, a baby care starter pack, legal costs, assistance with mediation with birth parents, parenting seminars, respite breaks for carers, and a dedicated phone line. These things will make a difference.