Assessment and planning
SMART planning
Good planning should follow the SMART principles: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and timeframed.
Working with Māori, Disability
Upholding the rights and mana of disabled people and tāngata whaikaha Māori
Disability is understood and accepted as a part of the diversity of the human experience and disabled people are treated with dignity and respect in all our interactions with them.
Working with Māori
Whānau searching
Whānau searching connects tamariki to their whānau network and when done well may extend into hapū and iwi. It helps identify the right people to participate and be involved in whānau decision-making about tamariki wellbeing.
Information sharing
Consulting about sharing information
We must consult with te tamaiti or rangatahi about disclosing their information. It is also good practice to consult with others whose information we are sharing if it is safe and appropriate to do so.
Care
Higher fostercare allowance
The higher fostercare allowance (HFCA) is used when a caregiver requires additional and specific financial support to meet the special needs of te tamaiti or rangatahi in their care that is best provided through a regular higher rate of payment.
Disability
Working with disability and learning supports, mental health and ACC
We work in partnership with tamariki and rangatahi and their whānau or family and collaborate with health and disability services to ensure that oranga needs and aspirations are understood and well supported.
Assessment and planning
Seeking consent to talk to tamariki and rangatahi
Wherever practicable, we seek consent from a parent or guardian when we need to talk directly with tamariki or rangatahi aged under 18 years old.
Adoption
Approving intercountry adoptive applicants
The New Zealand Central Authority (NZCA) approves intercountry adoptive applicants as eligible and suited to adopt tamariki from overseas. We provide the NZCA with our Home Study assessment report and recommendation to approve the applicants.
Working with Māori
Whakapapa research
Whakapapa research focuses on researching and identifying people, places and events that will provide tamariki with access to important cultural connections for their sense of belonging, wellbeing and identity.