The CPAG report released yesterday makes for interesting reading. While much has been achieved in reducing child poverty there is, of course, still more to do.  Some will quibble over definitions, but I hope we can all agree that  children wherever, or in what circumstances, they live deserve the best possible start in life.

I am proud that under the Labour led govenments of the last eight years much has been done to lift the incomes of families through the Working for Families scheme, (including families supported by benefits). In addition other measures such as cheaper doctors visits and prescriptions, paid parental leave, subsidised early childhood education, income related rents have helped lift families out of poverty.

The report does acknowledge that, but notes that families supported by benefits have been ‘left behind’, relative to those in work.  The in-work payment component of Working for Families comes in for particular criticism.  It needs to be borne in mind that this is an intervention aimed squarely at making paid work more accessible and worthwile.  In that regard it is a success, but equally, it was not aimed at and therefore it is not going to help the children of those on benefits. 

So how do we address the needs of those children ‘left behind’ ?  I am glad to hear Ruth Dyson acknowledging that the government will take the recommendations of the report seriously.  In my selection speech, I highlighted eliminating child poverty as one of the four key areas I think we need to work more on if we are to make progress towards a socially just society. 

From my personal point of view I think ensuring that no child in New Zealand grows up in poverty is not just about income levels (though they are of course significant) but about an approach that focuses on maximising the potential and capability of every child. This means making sure children are fit and healthy, respect themselves and the people around them and  ensures that they are equipped and encouraged to be able to think and learn.  Some key elements I would like to see looked at are;

- better coordination between government agencies that are involved in supporting families to ensure a clear focus on the elimination of child poverty,

- raising the incomes of all people bringing up children through initatives like increasing the minimum wage and family support (possibly including a universal element to that)

- development of the B4School health checks to a comprehensive school readiness programme.

- direct support for ensuring children are housed in warm, healthy homes.

- extension of paid parental leave and other support programmes for parents, including one on one support for new parents.

Much of the above is underway in one form or another with various government initatives.  We have made great progress in recent years, we must keep up that momentum and create opportunity and choice for all Kiwi kids.