Budget fact sheets 2007 - Multi-Agency Support Services in Secondary Schools (MASSiS)

The Government is investing nearly $2.6 million over the next year in social support services in low decile secondary schools.  This complements ongoing funding for school nurses in the same schools.

Contributing to the 2006 Plan of Action for Improving Outcomes for Young People in Counties Manukau, the funding will see the continuation of the Healthy Community Schools pilot currently operating in nine schools in Counties Manukau, Auckland and Porirua.  It will also provide a platform for further development of health and social services and support models for young people.

The wrap around service is aimed at reducing the impact of youth issues and improving the health, social and educational outcomes of high risk young people.  The pilot shows that meeting the social and primary health needs of students has dividends in terms of improved educational achievement.  Operating in partnership with secondary schools, it enables early intervention with young people and their families at a site close to their homes and communities.

The funding will allow for the employment of social workers who will work in partnership with government and non government agencies and further develop a range of intervention services for youth.  An evaluation of the services will be undertaken to ensure that they are meeting the health and social needs of the young people.

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