Government seeks to reform social investment approach to better serve vulnerable New Zealanders.
The Social Investment Agency has called for a change in the way government approaches social services, with a focus on delivering outcomes rather than just spending money. In a speech to a hui on social investment, the agency's leader emphasized the need for a more effective system that can help individuals and families in need.
The current approach has been criticized for failing to deliver results, with examples such as Jack, a 22-year-old who has been receiving government services but is still on a path towards a hard life. The agency wants to use data and evidence to create more success stories like those of outstanding New Zealanders who have emerged from challenging circumstances.
The proposed changes include a new funding model that gives non-government organizations, communities, and iwi more power to deliver what works, and a government budgeting approach that accounts for the savings created by investing in social initiatives. The Social Investment Fund will be established to test innovative approaches to delivering and funding for social outcomes.
The government is seeking input from experts in the field, including those who work with individuals and families, fund the work, and analyze data and evidence. The goal is to create a more effective system that can help New Zealanders like Jack and his whānau.