Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast Regional Plan 2007/2008
Foreword from the Regional Commissioner for Social Development
I am delighted to introduce our Regional Plan for 2007/2008.
Our region has many advantages. Beauty and character, strong economies and a culture of collaboration across government and community organisations to name just a few. Our challenge is to leverage off those advantages to provide the most effective responses to individuals, families and communities who need our support and social investment. This year, our social development activity will focus on preventing family violence, minimising disadvantage arising from poor physical or mental health and ensuring that our children and youth are supported to achieve their full potential. The importance of early intervention, particularly with clients who face significant life changes or additional disadvantage is a feature of this Plan.
Our region, is one of considerable size and diversity, however low unemployment is a common challenge and our commitment and input into workforce development strategies will continue. In this labour climate, employers providing flexible and supportive workplaces will be advantaged. We intend to increase our support and services to those employers that offer the best outcomes for our clients.
Last year saw the inclusion of Child, Youth and Family as a service line of the Ministry. They have added huge value to the work already underway through collaboration with Family and Community Services, the Ministry of Youth Development, Integrity Services, StudyLink and Work and Income. Last year we focused on four key priority areas:
- living without debt
- increased youth participation
- safe and resilient families
- decision-making support for those entering into and completing full-time study.
These projects are progressing through a 'single face of the Ministry' regional approach. We will further refine this work to focus on 'Positive Young People' and 'Strong Families' as our strategic direction.
We will meet the next 12 months with optimism and energy. This attitude echoes right across our region with hard working staff dedicated to helping their clients and communities. I would like to extend my appreciation and thanks to them.
Working with communities and other agencies plays a huge part in achieving the best results for all. Exceptional Māori leadership exists in this region and we hope to gain advice and support from those business and community leaders about how we can best meet their needs.
We are very fortunate that so many regional partners and stakeholders share our vision for safe, healthy and progressive communities and choose to work with us in open and helpful collaboration. We appreciate your enthusiasm and look forward to another year as we work together.
Janine Dowling
Regional Commissioner for Social Development
