3. NICKY WAGNER (National) Link to this
to the Minister for Social Development and Employment
What is the Government doing to support young people in youth development programmes?
Hon PAULA BENNETT (Minister for Social Development and Employment) Link to this
Last week we announced $250,000 from the Services for Young People Fund, to support 21 youth programmes across New Zealand. Seven regions will receive over $20,000 each. The Onehunga Father and Child Trust, Auckland City Matariki Youth, and the Kapiti Youth Support Trust are just a few organisations that have received this extra funding.
Hon PAULA BENNETT Link to this
I am pleased to let the member know that the extra funding will support a number of local youth initiatives, including support for young teen mums. The St Albans Youth Programme supports young mums to gain confidence and develop the skills they need to be the best parents for their children. Funding will also support developing youth community leadership.
Jacinda ArdernCan the Minister confirm that the Government support for youth development programmes has in fact decreased in the Budget; if so, can she advise the House whether this will lead to further cuts similar to those we have already seen to providers of youth services such as the National Youth Workers Network, New Zealand Aotearoa Adolescent Health and Development, youth health centres, and Youthline, just to name a few?
Hon PAULA BENNETT Link to this
As in any Budget round, there have been changes to some contracts, but certainly there has not been less money going in, at all. In fact, there is more. The Ministry of Youth Development has been concentrating on a “range, reach, and relevance” initiative, which means that the Ministry is reaching twice as many young people, with the same funding, through the programmes it is doing.
Chris AuchinvoleHon PAULA BENNETT Link to this
An extra $20,000 will go into local youth initiatives in Westport, Motueka, and Greymouth. That is supporting outreach services for isolated young people, advice for teens, and outdoor adventure programmes.