28 May 2014

Changes needed for CYF to earn trust

8:44 am on 28 May 2014

A women's refuge in South Auckland says recommendations from a Child, Youth and Family caseload review need to be implemented in order for people to trust the agency.

The review found caseloads are too high and social workers spend too much time on administration duties, rather than with vulnerable children.

It recommends Child, Youth and Family's systems be overhauled and more staff hired.

Te Whare Marama women's refuge co-ordinator Christina Teikamata said the agency is difficult to work with and she welcomed the review.

She said CYF social workers are overworked and do not have time to form relationships with families.

The Association of Social Workers said the review had vindicated what its members have known for a long time.