Region in social services trail

Wairarapa is one of eight new communities chosen to be a part of the Social Sector Trials aiming to test new ways of delivering better social services to young Kiwis by centrally managing services.

Wairarapa MP John Hayes said previous trials show positive long-term change is best driven by people in their communities and government agencies can best contribute by working closely helping the community adopt a joined-up approach.

"The outcomes we're after include reduced offending, reduced truancy, less alcohol and drug use and more young people participating in education, training and employment.

"With an additional focus on reducing risky sexual behaviour by young people," he said.

"If we can make good progress in these areas, we'd really be making a difference for our young people in Wairarapa."

The trials involve pulling various contracts and funding together and centrally managing them through a locally-based trial leader who will work to ensure services and goals are joined up.

"The launch of the Social Sector Trial in Wairarapa is a vote of confidence in the ability of those who live, work and play here to make a difference, and is a commitment from the Government to provide the support to get there," says Mr Hayes.

The Ministries of Social Development, Health, Education, Justice and the New Zealand police are working together to deliver this approach in partnership with communities and will be in touch with community leaders and service providers about the next steps in the process.

The Wairarapa trials will focus on young people aged 12 to 18.