CYF changes could mean untrained social workers

Radical changes to Wanganui Child, Youth and Family Services may see administration staff forced into social work they aren't trained for.
The Chronicle has been told that staff affected by the possible changes didn't want to be thrust into situations they had no training for.
"They want to stay at what they're good at. Some people they [social workers] deal with aren't that pleasant."
Others described the proposal as unfeasible and worried about the domino effect it could have on other services.
"The problem is if you squeeze on one end and reduce administration staff, the social workers could end up doing the work administration staff should be doing."
A proposal given to staff recently for consultation outlined a scenario where social work assistants wouldn't have their four month contracts renewed and administration staff would be re-deployed to fill the gaps.
Administration staff numbers would decrease from six positions to one. Duties previously carried out in Wanganui would be centralised to the New Plymouth service centre.
CYF regional director Linda Angus said a review of services was under way with the aim of improving services to children and their families.
"There will be a range of support services and resources to help the frontline in service centres. By bringing together administration functions they can liaise with stakeholders and caregivers," Ms Angus said.
She stressed the proposals weren't set in concrete and had been given to staff for consultation and an opportunity to respond.
"We've had good feedback from staff," she said. However, the Chronicle understands morale in the Wanganui CYF office is low and several social workers have departed, leaving as many as nine vacancies.
Ms Angus said it was possible some administration functions could shift to New Plymouth, but no decision had been made. Wanganui is part of the Western service centre, which includes New Plymouth, Hawera, and Taumarunui.
"But that does not mean there will be any reduction in staff numbers. "There's no lessening of positions? while some functions may go to the service centre, social work resource assistants become available."
Tasks some staff would have to perform would be "a bit different" from what they do now and more client-related, she said.
However, the changes would clarify straight clerical functions and those of social workers.
Duties could include paying bills, organising cars, mixed up with case management. The object was to enhance and improve the service provided to customers, Ms Angus said.