Kawerau District Council Youth Policy

Approximately 40% of Kawerau’s residents are under the age of 24 and Council wants to make sure that young people have a chance to participate in their community. Council adopted its Youth Policy  on 30 October 2007. The Policy includes the Council's vision for its youth and the objectives needed for putting this vision into action.

Basically the Policy can be broken down into four key principles:

Youth Development

Participation

You are encouraged to be involved in Council processes that impact on the young people of Kawerau.

Involvement

Youth involvement is to be encouraged in relevant Council projects and events.

Consultation

Youth are to be actively consulted in decision-making processes that affect youth development.

Support

Opportunities are to be created and ongoing support provided for the development of the young people of Kawerau.

Celebration

Opportunities that celebrate the achievements of Kawerau’s young people are to be created and supported.

Advocacy

Assistance

The establishment of the Youth Council or Youth Advisory Forum is recommended for Kawerau to advocate on behalf of Kawerau Youth.

Support

The Youth Council or Youth Advisory Forum will advocate on identified issues that affect youth.

Information

Kawerau Youth are to be educated and informed of their rights and responsibilities.

Partnership

Networking

Regular networking and information sharing opportunities between Council and Youth Service Providers are to be promoted.

Assistance

Community youth organisations in Kawerau are to be assisted with resources.

Promotion

The Community is to be made aware of the role of the Youth Council or Youth Advisory Forum as a resource and voice for young people.

Connection

Relationship between Council and Youth Service Providers is to be enhanced to support the delivery of events and services for the youth of Kawerau.

Provision

Funding

Available funds are to be distributed for youth events and activities in Kawerau.

Access

Information on Council services, events and activities are to be provided and accessible for youth and their families.

Resources

Collaborative projects with other agencies and organisations are to be undertaken to facilitate the co-ordination and further development of youth services and facilities.