Episode 25: Engaging Vulnerable Youth in Advocacy - New Zealand

Family for Every Child: Conversations on Care

In this episode Amanda is joined by three representatives of Pillars Ka Pou, a New Zealand based charity which exists to support the children and families of people in prison or serving a community sentence.

We hear about the work of the Youth Advisory Panel, which launched in 2022 to directly engage young people with lived experience and amplify their voices. The panel has been involved in important initiatives, including rewriting the Bill of Rights for children of incarcerated parents and advocating for the creation of a "navigator" role in the criminal justice system to provide wraparound support for families.

We also hear about the strong emphasis Pillars’ places on Maori values and culture, which shape the organization's approach and engagement with young people.

Despite the challenging political and economic environment in New Zealand, Pillars has remained committed to its values-driven approach and continues to work closely with the Youth Advisory Panel to drive positive change in the justice system and improve outcomes for children and families.
Find out more at www.pillars.org.nz