Attribute to Nicolette Dickson, Chief Social Worker.
"Oranga Tamariki acknowledges the release of the Experiences of Care in Aotearoa 2024-25 report and the important role of Aroturuki Tamariki, Independent Children's Monitor in bringing forward the voices of tamariki, rangatahi, whānau, caregivers and kaimahi.
We appreciate the time and effort the Monitor spends preparing this report and engaging with tamariki, rangatahi, whānau, caregivers, kaimahi and communities to inform its findings.
Oranga Tamariki remains committed to meeting the National Care Standards Regulations for all tamariki and rangatahi in our care.
We have seen some performance improvements in eight of the 10 focus areas in our National Care Standards Action Plan and are confident about seeing sustained improvements by a continued focus on this work.
More tamariki are being supported to remain safely with their whānau, and of those surveyed, 96 percent of children in care tell us they feel safe, 90 percent feel supported to achieve their goals and 89 percent tell us they feel they have somewhere they belong.
Caregiver supports continue to improve, youth offending initiatives are showing promise, and standards across residences are lifting significantly. We are investing in new frontline technology, professional supports and training, youth justice services, and have established a Child Protection Investigation Unit.
Our focus remains on delivering that Action Plan, which is driving improvement in the areas where change is most needed. We will continue progressing this work, alongside our cross-agency efforts to improve access to the education, health and social services that tamariki and rangatahi rely on."
View the ICM report and the Oranga Tamariki response on the ICM website