Assessment and planning

Child sexual exploitation

We may become aware through a report of concern or while we are working with a whānau or family that someone is accessing, exchanging or producing recordings of the sexual abuse of tamariki or rangatahi (sometimes called child pornography).

Policy

Youth Court

When we are involved with the Youth Court, we need a good understanding of the court processes and how they relate to us and the people we work with.

Using section 261 in a youth justice family group conference

Care and protection concerns for tamariki and rangatahi who offend can be considered during the youth justice family group conference under section 261 or in a separate care and protection family group conference.

Adoption

Intercountry adoption applications to the Family Court

When adoptive applicants apply for intercountry adoption directly to the Family Court, we determine the best way to proceed depending on the countries of residence of all parties to the adoption application. We liaise with the Intercountry Adoption Team.

Practice approach

Te Ao Māori principles of oranga

Te Ao Māori principles of oranga (wellbeing) are central to Oranga Tamariki social work practice.

Care

How we work with tamariki and rangatahi who are missing or whose absence is unauthorised

There are triggers and risk factors that can signal that tamariki and rangatahi may be considering running away. This guidance may help us deal with this situation.

Youth justice, Interventions

Working in the Youth Court Te Kōti Taiohi o Aotearoa

Tamariki and rangatahi charged with offences appear in the Youth Court, Te Kōti Rangatahi or the Pasifika Court. Te Kōti Rangatahi and the Pasifika Court work within the Youth Court legal structure and have culturally appropriate venues and processes.

Care

Unaccompanied tamariki and rangatahi – section 48

When Police use section 48 for tamariki or rangatahi found in a situation where their physical or mental health is, or is likely to be, impaired, we find an approved care arrangement, meet their immediate needs and assess their oranga (wellbeing).

Information sharing, Policy

Sharing information

Sharing information is a key part of a practitioner’s role when working with tamariki and rangatahi and their whānau or family to ensure we're keeping tamariki and rangatahi safe. We respect the mana and dignity of the people the information is about.

Care, Policy

Transition to adulthood — Maintaining contact

We must maintain contact with eligible rangatahi who have left care or a youth justice residential placement when a transition worker isn’t available through a local provider.