Budget empowers parents and communities, says Save the Children New Zealand

22 May 2008

Save the Children New Zealand welcomes the Government’s Budget initiatives which will strengthen and empower the capacity of parents and communities to care for New Zealand’s children.

John Bowis, Executive Director of Save the Children New Zealand says: “The $24.6 million boost announced in today’s Budget to assist the country’s 7,500 caregivers is a positive investment in our children’s future.

“It acknowledges that families are the best carers for their children, and empowers and builds on their capacity to manage this.

“We are also delighted that the government has seen fit to provide a $446.5 million boost to fully-fund contracted essential services delivered by community organisations for vulnerable families, children and young people, including elder abuse and neglect services.

“This is further proof that a cooperative approach, between families and communities, and harnessing the expertise of community organisations, is the best way of ensuring that our children are cared for.

“This is a positive step for New Zealand and provides communities with the support necessary to develop and run vital programmes that will help reduce issues such as family violence. It is essential that we support parents with education and information,” says John Bowis.

“It is also encouraging to see the Government’s ongoing commitment to children and families health in the form of interest free loans for insulation and clean heating initiatives for middle-income households.

“We have long known that well-insulated homes provide a healthier and more comfortable environment for our children and are delighted that more families will be able to take advantage of this basic right.”

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For further comment call John Bowis, Save the Children New Zealand Executive Director: 04 381 7579 0r 029 200 9348.
For further information, contact Diane Robinson, Save the Children New Zealand communications coordinator: 03 384 7573 or 207 569 1919.