Published: October 3, 2019
National Social Workers’ Day this year came at a time of transformational change, and also public spotlight.
It was a chance to reflect on social work as a profession. It is complex, and to be a social worker you need extraordinary passion and skills.
On the day, New Zealanders thanked social workers for the work they do that changes lives. I encourage you to watch Julian and Chelsea's video message that celebrates social workers day.
Oranga Tamariki has an opportunity now to deliver on the intent and contribution of social work, bringing people together, innovating and collaborating to strengthen the Oranga of Tamariki and their whānau in lasting ways.
In particular, we need to walk alongside whānau, hapu and iwi.
We already work with more than 100 iwi and Māori providers to deliver services and focused programmes; and on 22 August we signed our fourth Strategic Partnership Agreement with iwi.
The agreement, with Ngai Tūhoe, is founded on the belief that children of Tūhoe decent are best supported by whānau with unconditional love and support.
System change is happening, and I’m really excited about what it means for tamariki.
The Government’s Child and Youth Wellbeing Strategy was launched in September.
The Strategy was developed with input from over 10,000 New Zealanders – including 6000 children and young people.
It sets out a shared understanding of what’s important for child and youth wellbeing, what government is doing, and how others can help.
You can read the Strategy on the Government’s Child and Youth Wellbeing website.
Nga mihi,
Gráinne