Take action if you are serious about children's well-being, say nurses

The New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) is concerned that the Green Paper on vulnerable children released by the Government yesterday may not do enough to raise children out of poverty or stop child abuse. NZNO welcomes the opportunity to be consulted on this important issue but is disappointed at the lengthy delay before action is taken by the government.

"Nurses are calling on the Government to take action now to improve the lives and well-being of our vulnerable children. The issue of abuse and neglect of children are a stark everyday reality for nurses, midwives and other health professionals working with children and families in Aotearoa New Zealand," says NZNO professional nursing adviser, Kate Weston.

"The Government already knows what the problems are and it knows what to do about it. There is abundant evidence to guide us towards integrated solutions to improve outcomes for young people. The Government has the means to implement child-centred solutions right now. It is clear that cross-sector solutions must be implemented urgently."

NZNO advocates for a New Zealand where everyone has equitable access to healthcare, education and the services they need. The Government's lengthy consultation on the Green paper on Vulnerable Children is just another delay to achieving that.

New Zealand Nurses Organisation The New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) is the leading professional body of nurses and nursing union in Aotearoa New Zealand, representing over 45 000 nurses and health workers.

Te Runanga o Aotearoa is the arm through which our Te Tiriti o Waitangi partnership is articulated.

Our members include nurses, midwives, students, kaimahi hauora, health care workers and allied health professionals. The NZNO vision is "Freed to care, Proud to nurse"
. Our members enhance the health and wellbeing of all people of Aotearoa New Zealand and are united in their professional and industrial aspirations.

© Scoop Media