Child and family policy

Contents | Introduction | Why have a child and family policy? | Children and families in Auckland city | Getting your views | Guiding documents | Auckland City's role | Making things happen | Work progressed during 2005/06 | Child and family action plan 2006/07 | Appendix: Other relevant Auckland City policies

Why have a child and family policy?

Guiding council resolution

In 2002/2003 Auckland City carried out a study to identify how it could deliver advocacy for children, young people and families. The study was reported to the February 2003 Community Services Committee along with the recommendation that a child and family policy be developed to:

• allow the organisation to develop an understanding of the needs and issues of children and families in the city
• advance a culture that considers children and families as key stakeholders in the city.

The Auckland City Council meeting on 26 June 2003 supported and endorsed these recommendations and work then began to develop the policy.

The purpose of the policy

Auckland City currently provides many activities, services and facilities for children and families, but it needs a more coordinated organisational approach. This policy strives to ensure children and families have more of a say on issues that affect them.

The purpose of Growing up together is to provide direction for Auckland City policy and project managers so they consider the views of children and families on all projects. It also encourages dialogue between children, families and Auckland City, and acknowledges the important role of external service agencies working closely with children.

Reviewed August 2006