Independent review of CYF complaints process underway

Paula Bennett says Howard Broad will consult others. Photo / Mark Mitchell

A review of the Child Youth and Family complaints process has begun as part of the White Paper for Vulnerable Children.

Social Development Minister Paula Bennett has appointed former police commissioner Howard Broad as the independent reviewer to look at whether there needs to be an independent complaints body for CYF.

"This is something that came up at Green Paper meetings and in public submissions, so New Zealanders have been heard and we are responding.

The review will be completed by the end of 2013.

The terms of reference include:

* the current arrangements for members of the public to have a complaint about CYF heard
* provide a view on how the current arrangements are working
* consider options for independence and report on the financial, legislative and accountability implications of these options.

It will not re-examine any particular case investigated by the Ministry or CYF complaints panel.