Understanding the increase in reports of concern

In 2024, we received a notable increase in reports from the public concerned about children and young people. These are known as a 'report of concern'.

We received 95,422 reports of concern for 59,391 distinct tamariki. This was a 34.5% increase compared to 2023.

This review explores the reasons for this increase. It consists of 3 distinct, but closely related, reports:

1. A reference document of key events against report trends
2. Insight into the increase in reports of concern during 2024
3. Exploring future demand

There is no one single reason behind the increase. The data tells us that several key factors have contributed:

• Recording changes: We improved how we record reports of concern, ensuring each one is counted, even if it relates to a family we’re already working with. This accounts for at least 24% of the increase.
  
  
• Public awareness: Significant events can drive a noticeable rise in reports of concern.
  
  
• Social and economic stress: Broader pressures like housing insecurity, cost of living and mental distress are placing more strain on families across the motu.
  
  

The report also identifies three key risks over the next 1 to 2 years:

• Harm to children is likely to increase.
  
  
• Reports to Oranga Tamariki are likely to increase.
  
  
• System responsiveness is under strain.