Cuts to publicly funded front-line youth services puts vulnerable children at risk

Ara Taiohi, the peak body for youth development in Aotearoa, is deeply disappointed

by comments made yesterday by Minister Chhour. We strongly dispute the suggestion

that community service providers have viewed public funding as “cash cows” and that

the Ministry is only cutting funding to organisations that “don’t work”.

Our members have shared with us the devastating impact that recent cuts have had on

our most vulnerable rangatahi. Some organisations will have to withdraw their

services altogether, while others will have to reduce the support they are providing to

those currently enrolled in their programmes and turn away those who are reaching

out for help.

One member outlined the impact of a recent funding cuts as having “to dramatically

reduce the services we offer and let go of some of the youth we serve. In some cases,

we are the only positive adults in their lives. Two staff members will lose their jobs. As

a staff of only 6, to lose 2 is devastating."

Youth Services across the motu use a positive youth development approach to support

all elements of a young person’s holistic development, work with them to develop the

tools that rangatahi need to successfully navigate life’s challenges.

The recent reports of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in State and Faith-

Based Care’s Report and the Aroturuki Tamariki (Independent Children's Monitor) review of actions taken in response to Malachi Subecz’s death highlighted the damage that can be done when the youth services sector is underfunded and under-resourced.

We are calling on the government to reverse its decision and to fund youth services

that are a lifeline for many rangatahi.