The Child, Youth and Family social worker, your lawyer and the Court must explain in a way you can understand what is happening and what will be the effect on you of any legal procedures or court orders.[24].

If you feel you are not being kept fully informed then ask questions of the social worker and the lawyer. If you do not get satisfactory answers contact an outside agency such as the Commissioner for Children (Email: children@occ.org.nz ) or YouthLaw (Email: info@youthlaw.co.nz)

If the Court finds I am in need of care and protection does that mean that I will be taken away from my parents?
Not necessarily. Social workers must always look at ways in which you can stay with your parents or members of your family or whanau. But they have a responsibility to make sure you are protected from any serious risk to your safety and wellbeing. Child, Youth and Family may arrange support for you and your parents – this may be financial assistance, counselling, a non-violent parenting course or a drug programme. They might arrange for you to stay with your grandparents, a family friend or relatives until things settle down at home.[25]




[24] s5(d) & (e)(ii) and s10 CYPF Act
[25] s4(b) to (d), s5(b) and (c)(ii) CYPF Act