Child Protection Policy

1. Purpose

The Child Protection Policy aims to ensure the safety, protection, and well-being of all children, especially tamariki Māori, who engage with Te Whare Ruruhau O Meri, (TWR)M). This policy outlines our commitment to safeguarding children from harm and ensuring compliance with New Zealand legislation, emphasizing a culturally responsive approach that respects the rights and identities of tamariki.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all kaimahi working with tamariki in TWROM. It reflects our dedication to creating a safe environment where children can thrive and feel valued.

3. Legal Framework

This policy is guided by New Zealand legislation, including:

The Children’s Act 2014: This Act promotes the well-being and protection of children. It emphasizes prioritizing the best interests of the child in all decisions and actions.

The Oranga Tamariki Act 1989: This Act focuses on the care and protection of children, authorizing the Ministry for Children (Oranga Tamariki) to act in the best interests of tamariki and to intervene when necessary to ensure their safety.

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCROC): This international treaty recognizes the rights of children to enjoy their culture, speak their language, and practice their religion, emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage for tamariki Māori.

The Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993: While primarily focused on Māori land, this Act underscores the importance of protecting Māori identity and cultural practices, which are central to the rights of tamariki Māori.

The Treaty of Waitangi (Te Tiriti o Waitangi): As a foundational document in New Zealand, it establishes the principles of partnership, protection, and participation, guiding our work with tamariki Māori.

4. Principles of Child Protection

The best interests of the tamariki: All actions and decisions must prioritise the best interests of the child, ensuring their safety, well-being, and cultural identity.

Cultural empowerment and participation: We actively encourage tamariki to express their views and participate in decisions affecting them, promoting their rights to be heard and valued.

Cultural safety and relevance: We acknowledge and respect the cultural practices, values, and beliefs of tamariki and their whanau, ensuring that our practices are culturally appropriate and responsive to their needs.

5. Roles and Responsibilities

Management: Responsible for ensuring the implementation of the child protection policy and to provide training for kaimahi and overseeing child protection processes that reflect Māori perspectives.

Kaimahi: Are required to understand and adhere to this policy, engage in ongoing training, and report any concerns regarding child safety or welfare, particularly in relation to tamariki Māori.

Children and Families: Supported in understanding this policy and encouraged to participate actively in safeguarding practices for their tamariki.

6. Recruitment and Training

All kaimahi and will undergo comprehensive background checks, including police vetting, and will receive training on child protection protocols that include an emphasis on understanding the cultural context of tamariki Māori. Regular training will ensure all personnel are equipped to identify and respond to potential cases of abuse or neglect, with a focus on culturally safe practices.

7. Reporting Procedures

Any kaimahi member who suspects, witnesses, or receives a disclosure of child abuse or neglect must report it immediately to their Manutaki/Supervisor.

The Manutaki will document the concern and engage with the appropriate authorities, including Oranga Tamariki, where it is assessed necessary and following the guidelines set forth in the Children’s Act 2014 and other relevant legislation and will oversee a formal report of concern to Oranga Tamariki.

8. Confidentiality and Privacy

All reports and information concerning child protection will be handled with the utmost confidentiality. Information will only be shared with those who need to know to ensure the safety and protection of tamariki.

9. Engagement with Whānau

Recognizing the importance of whanau, we commit to engaging effectively with whānau to support the well-being of tamariki. We will respect whānau roles and involve them in decisions regarding the care and protection of their tamariki.

10. Contact Information

For any concerns or inquiries related to this Child Protection Policy, please contact:

Tania Beekmans – Child Protection Officer – TWROM
Taniab@tewhare.org.nz

11. Definitions

Culturally Responsive Practice	Acknowledging and valuing Te Ao Māori
Kaimahi	Employees of Te Whare
Mahi	Work / role in Te Whare
Manukura	Regional Manager
Manutaki	Team Supervisor
Oranga Tamariki	Statutory Child Protection Agency
Organisational Values	Te Whare Ruruhau o Meri Values (as on the Website)
Tamariki	Children
Whānau	Family

12. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed bi-annually or more frequently if there are significant changes to legislation or organisational practices to ensure ongoing compliance and relevance.