Programme to Improve Outcomes for Young People in Counties Manukau
The plan to improve outcomes for young people in Counties-Manukau is aimed at helping young people caught up in gangs in this community.
The Ministry of Social Development along with other agencies developed a Plan of Action for Counties Manukau and Otahuhu with 26 action points ranging from the establishment of youth action teams to cops in schools. Since 2006/07 $2.5 million per year has been made available to better meet local demand for community-based programmes to improve.
Family and Community Services is currently supporting 23 youth workers, six parenting programmes, and six Integrated Case Managers under this initiative.
In 2009/2010 we are funding the following six providers to deliver parenting support programmes in Counties-Manukau to teach parenting skills:
- II MUCH Youth Development Trust
- Genesis Youth Trust
- Anglican Trust for Women and Children
- Salvation Army New Zealand Trust
- Ohomairangi Trust
- Auckland Cook Islands Support Services.
It is anticipated that between 800-1,000 parents will receive these parenting services.
The youth workers attract and identify youth, and their parents, to participate in community activities and programmes. They also receive referrals from the Integrated Case Managers, and other agencies, in particular the Police and Child, Youth and Family. Over 60% of youth referred to the services had current gang involvement.
