Carmel
SEPULONI

Social Development Spokesperson

27 August 2015 MEDIA STATEMENT

Nats playing politics with social workers

National is playing politics by refusing to support a member’s bill requiring registration of social workers despite the Children’s Commissioner saying upskilling is vital, Labour’s Social Development spokesperson Carmel Sepuloni says.

“Today’s Children’s Commissioner’s report into the treatment of children in CYF’s care revealed many shocking cases of abuse and neglect under state care.

“One of the key recommendations is upskilling our workforce, including better training and support for social workers. Many of whom are overworked and under-resourced.

“Yet, on the same day the report was released, Anne Tolley confirmed the government will oppose steps to require registration of social workers which would ensure the entire workforce are qualified, regulated and supported.

“The Minister knows that regulation is crucial to lifting standards. The report highlighted the need to ‘develop a strategy for a skilled workforce that is trained and fully supported’ for the 5000 kids under CYFs care.

She has previously declared her support for the mandatory registration of social workers. It’s hugely embarrassing our Government is now opposing this common-sense measure.

“National needs to leave the politics aside, and act to protect children at risk immediately,” Carmel Sepuloni says.

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