10. KATRINA SHANKS (National) Link to this
to the Minister for Social Development and Employment
What agreements has the Government recently made to support foster carers?
Hon PAULA BENNETT (Minister for Social Development and Employment) Link to this
Today we have signed a new memorandum of understanding with the newly named Fostering Kids, which was formerly the New Zealand Foster Care Federation. This memorandum of understanding formalises further our much valued relationship. From July 1 the training that Fostering Kids provides will be aligned alongside New Zealand Qualifications Authority unit standards, counting towards a national qualification in family, whānau, and foster care.
Hon PAULA BENNETT Link to this
I would like to take this opportunity in the House to thank outgoing Children’s Commissioner John Angus, whose farewell is being held in Parliament this afternoon. John has brought great independence, commitment, and knowledge to the role of Children’s Commissioner, and he has been a tireless advocate for foster children, children in care, and those amazing people who look after them. I have very much valued his considered counsel over the past few years, and I would like to publicly thank him on behalf of New Zealand children for the work he has done.