Thriving Rangatahi, Auckland Council’s plan to support the wellbeing of young people has been backed in the south of the city.
Franklin, Papakura and Manurewa Local Boards have endorsed the policy but not without calls for more funding and clarity around responsibilities.
Papakura Local Board chair Brent Catchpole says his members are worried some areas of concern should be central government-owned.
“We’re looking at education, transport, mental health and housing. Council can’t hope to supply everything young people would like, or that is envisaged. There is simply not enough funding to cover the wish list,” he explains.
“We’re concerned the policy will create expectations council will be able to deliver on all these things, when we don’t have the capacity or the decision-making authority.”
Thriving Rangatahi was born out of review that found council was not addressing young people’s needs and could better target its support.
It has five focus areas - civic participation, climate and the environment, connection and belonging, health and wellbeing, and access to opportunities.
It recognises council has a role to play and proposes four ways of working:
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Partnerships
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targeting efforts to those who need it most
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mana-enhancing approaches, and
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ensuring a youth voice in decision-making.
Franklin Local Board chair Angela Fulljames says investment needs to reach the most disadvantaged.
“That needs to include factors such as isolation. A lot of our young people are a long way from facilities and services such as public transport, libraries and recreation,” she says.
“We were struck the review showed respondents were more likely to report a lower quality of life in the west and south. The strategy needs to have clear deliverables around that.”
The review found most young people were doing well, were active, had strong relationships with adults, and enjoyed their communities and the city’s diversity.
But others faced persistent issues such as poverty and poor housing.
Manurewa Local Board chair Matt Winiata warns of the impacts on mental health because Māori, Pasifika, rainbow and disabled children were all more likely to experience inequity.
“We agree with our colleagues around targeting support where it is most needed,” he says.
“There is perception that our quality of life is diminishing because of crime, homelessness, and the high cost of living. Those are things that should be considered.
“For things to change we need new ways for youth to have their voices heard. Last month we attended a Manurewa Youth Council event where they noted their concerns including vaping, a high drop-out rate, lack of resources and the need for safe spaces and facilities.
“Thriving Rangatahi is a good start. Every journey begins with listening to each other.”
The policy will incorporate local board feedback and go to the Policy and Planning Committee for approval.
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