Canterbury Regional Plan 2008/2009
What Michelle has to say
“The many healthy working relationships we’ve established with businesses, government, non-government agencies and communities are critical in truly making a difference. Continuing our joint work to help all people to be successful in their lives is what this Plan is about”.
Michelle Mitchell
Regional Commissioner for Social Development
Highlights of 2007/2008
In partnership with government agencies, individuals and organisations, a variety of initiatives and programmes have been developed to address Canterbury's important social issues. Highlights of work include:</9>
- Opening of the Linwood Community Link
- Children's Day celebration held in Hagley Park, Christchurch
- Launch of the Christchurch Interagency Strategy for Young People from a Refugee Background
- Appointment of two youth justice managers, a youth justice practice advisor and dedicated youth justice teams
- Funding for the Pumanawa Atawhai/Nurturing Potential Adventure Therapy programme in the Selwyn District
Key Priorities for 2008/2009
Give children the best start in life
Key programmes and initiatives include:
- ensuring children enjoy a stable home
- focusing on the children
- advocating for children and young people who witness family violence
- ensuring the right response at the right time
Help young people achieve their potential
Key programmes and initiatives include:
- informing parents of teenagers
- supporting young men leaving prison
- creating pathways to fulfil potential
- providing effective youth justice services
- finding accommodation for young people
- helping tertiary students make good decisions
Enable people to live independent lives
Key programmes and initiatives include:
- offering working opportunities
- improving our local labour market
- reviewing our services to older people
- expanding SuperGold Card benefits
- encouraging communities to create job opportunities
Support families and whanau to be safe and resilient
Key programmes and initiatives include:
- providing in-home help for families with young children
- identifying families with multiple and complex needs
- helping to keep families healthy in winter
- building support for families experiencing family violence
- changing the way New Zealander's react to family violence
- enhancing families' home and life skills
Strengthen communities
Key programmes and initiatives include:
- strengthening community providers
- supporting local-level planning
- helping with best practice policy-making
- supporting community organisation participation
- bringing services together in one place
Other regional priorities
- co-ordinating efforts to reduce offending
- building financial independence of Maori
