“This week is Foster Care Awareness week, a chance to say thank you to all our extraordinary caregivers who play a very special role in the lives of some of New Zealand’s most vulnerable children and young people,” said Head of Child, Youth and Family Ray Smith.

Around the country Child, Youth and Family and foster care associations are holding morning teas, lunches and family fun days for caregivers to thank them for the work that they do.

“Our caregivers are hugely influential in helping to shape a New Zealand where children and young people grow up in families that are free from abuse and neglect, free from violence and free from offending.

“They come from all walks of life, but what they have in common is a desire to help children and young people and an ability to provide them with love, support, understanding and encouragement.  

“Foster Care Awareness week is also an opportunity to encourage more people to consider becoming caregivers.

“There are a number of ways New Zealanders can choose to make a difference. They might give a night or a weekend of their time or perhaps be available for longer-term care. As a caregiver they could care for children and young people from their own family or whanau, or children and young people who are not able to live at home.

“I want to encourage all those interested in becoming caregivers to call 0508 FAMILY (0508 326459) or check out our website http://www.cyf.govt.nz/,” said Ray Smith.

Read Hon Ruth Dyson's media release 'Fabulous caregivers'.

Ends

Note to editors

Child, Youth and Family offers six different types of care:

• Emergency care
• Respite care
• Short-term care
• Medium to long-term care
• Permanency
• Family Home care.

For more information please contact Jane Mortlock on 04 9784197 or email jane.mortlock002@msd.govt.nz