Published 8 September 2017 (Cover page). Released online by Oranga Tamariki, Ministry for Children, 30 January 2018.

The Children in New Zealand Communities Survey provides information about the attitudes and behaviours of the New Zealand public towards children and young people ‘at risk’ of not thriving. This survey was a nationwide, mixed methods (self-completion) survey of New Zealand residents aged 18 years and over. A total of 2,928 adults completed this survey between 24 May and 29 June 2017. Detailed information about the survey approach and sample profile can be found in the appendix of this report.

In 2015, the Minister for Social Development established an Expert Advisory Panel to undertake a comprehensive review of Child, Youth and Family (CYF). The final report from this panel identified Engaging all New Zealanders as a building block for the new system of care and protection of vulnerable children.

The purpose of Engaging all New Zealanders is to raise awareness and create a sense of responsibility, to shift attitudes and social norms and to encourage everyone to take action for the wellbeing of vulnerable children and young
people.
To achieve this, the (now) Ministry for Vulnerable Children Oranga Tamariki aims to improve its understanding of New Zealanders’ beliefs, opinions, attitudes and behaviours regarding child and youth vulnerability.

The survey reported here follows on from the formative research undertaken in March 2017 by EY Sweeney. It provides a benchmark measure against which change can be measured going forward. It also provides and will complement, other evidence to guide the development and implementation of strategies, support and communications pertaining to how we care for our children and young people. (From the introduction). Download the report or read a summary on the Oranga Tamariki website. Record #5740