VOYCE launches 6 Promises for 6000

VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai exists to amplify the voices of tamariki and rangatahi (children and young people) and ensure they are at the centre of all conversations and decisions made about them during their time in care. The organisation was co-designed by young people with care experience for young people with care experience.

VOYCE worked with care experienced rangatahi from the VOYCE National Youth Council to create 6 PROMISES FOR 6000. It is call to all those running for elected office to agree to uphold six basic asks when they make it into parliament – where they will be uniquely placed to both ensure and monitor that the next Government delivers on these promises. 

Our petition was launched on OurActionStation on Wednesday 09 September 2020. Through a groundswell movement of people across Aotearoa we would like to see all New Zealand elected representatives sign up to these 6 PROMISES FOR 6000 to ensure the care system becomes a truly caring system. 

We see the potential abilities and strengths apparent in the care community every day, and with public support feel we can all play a part in ensuring these promises are kept. Our wish for Aotearoa is a truly ‘caring system’ that helps these 6000 children and young people live up to their great promise.

OurActionStation petition page

NEWS COVERAGE

Promise Three: Learning

Education as a gateway to dreams, rangatahi are supported to achieve aspirations.

Promise One: Care

Every tamaiti receives nurturing, protection, and provision, as any good parent would offer.

Promise Five: Voice

Tamariki and rangatahi are involved in decisions that affect them, and their voices are honoured.

Promise Four: Wellbeing

Timely, accessible, and culturally conscious health and mental health services are available to all taiohi.

Promise Two: Stability

Young people in care experience consistency, safety, and a sense of belonging.

Whānau care is where a child is being raised by someone in their whānau or extended family. Often it means a child living with their grandparents – but could also be another family member like an aunt, uncle or older sibling. Whāngai is the traditional Māori practice of whānau care.