United Future
Judy Turner

Turner: CYFS reform agenda back on table with new boss

Ms Tyler, as head of Canadaís Alberta Child Services, introduced the ĎAlberta Response Modelí.

"This was based on a differential response system and is exactly the kind of model that United Future launched last month, with a view to starting again and doing it right for New Zealandís children," Mrs Turner said.

"Iím thrilled with her appointment and look forward to discussing this with her and how it could be developed in the New Zealand context.

"CYFS and the Government definitely stand in need of some fresh thinking and new ideas," Mrs Turner said.

The underlying idea of a differential response model is that after initial screening, a family is referred down one of two tracks - a child protection stream for cases with a high risk of physical or emotional harm or a family support stream for cases where there is lower risk and families are willing to address the challenges they face.

The family support stream links the vital and already existing NGO and community services with the massive need for families to have access to assistance with the everyday stresses of family life.

"To date, the Government has refused to consider the massive cultural shift towards preventative work that this kind of model brings.

"I hope with Ms Tylerís appointment we will see positive changes that move CYFS from its current crisis mode to one where effective family support services see familiesí needs addressed in a timely way," Mrs Turner said.

United Futureís full and detailed proposal is available at:

Ends.