Police acknowledges and accepts the findings of an Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) report released today regarding processes for placing children and young people in alternative care.
Section 48 of the Oranga Tamariki Act 1989 enables Police to remove unaccompanied children and young people from situations where their physical or mental health is being, or is likely to be, harmed.
Assistant Commissioner Tusha Penny says section 48 does not apply to many of the complex family situations Police regularly encounter.
“If a child or young person doesn’t want to return to the care of their parent or caregiver, Police has a duty to understand why that is and take action to ensure their safety.
“It’s clear that in each of the four cases highlighted by the IPCA, Police staff have made well considered and thoughtful decisions with the young people’s safety in mind.
“In saying that, we’re always willing to learn and continuously improve our processes to ensure decisions are consistent, coordinated and focused on safety.
“Police has recently refreshed national guidance on the use of section 48. This updated guidance is currently being delivered to frontline staff by Youth Aid practitioners.
“Some of these cases can be complex and we need to remember that children are ever reliant on adults to act in their best interests to ensure their safety.
“Police takes the ongoing safety of children seriously and in that spirit the decisions we make every day involve them and their families.
“We acknowledge that in some cases there are learnings and alternative options available.
“Ultimately, we all want what’s best for these children and young people.”
