(from The Migrant Times; the original story is here https://themigranttimes.org.nz/stories/2017/4/6/new-ministry-for-vulnerable-children-oranga-tamariki-launched?rq=oranga)

Minister for Children Anne Tolley officially launched the new Ministry for Vulnerable Children, Oranga Tamariki, on March 31.

“This is the start of a four to five year major transformation programme to build a more child-centred care and protection system, focusing on harm and trauma prevention and early intervention, rather than crisis management. The Ministry for Vulnerable Children, Oranga Tamariki will also be a single point of accountability for children and young people where it will be easier for them to raise concerns or complaints. Children and young people will also have access to a new independent advocacy service, VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai," noted Anne Tolley.

The Ministry for Vulnerable Children, Oranga Tamariki will focus on five core services - prevention, intensive intervention, care support, youth justice, and transition support into adulthood.

Further reforms are currently before Select Committee which will enable:

• Young people to remain in care or return to care up until the age of 21, with transition support and advice available up to the age of 25

• The establishment of an information sharing framework to keep vulnerable children and young people safe from harm