Children’s rights and the cashless welfare card system are just two areas advocacy group Grandparents Victoria/Kinship Carers Victoria want to see addressed in the lead-up to the November state election.
Among the issues being championed is a desire to see a commitment to its suggested policy of accompanying all legislative changes that will impact children with Child Impact Statements.
Members are also calling for a review of all cases where children have been quickly placed into kinship services by the Department of Human and Health Services, with no additional support offered.
The organisation wants to see the capacity of Education Lookout Centres across the state increased so they can do more to support children with learning difficulties.
Director Anne McLeish said the group took United Nations Convention articles regarding the right of the child seriously and expected leaders to do the same. She said the organisation would also like to see a commitment to establish a state committee focused on providing ample play space to children.
It has also called for welfare measures that “support families without stigmatising them” and for a commitment to cease use of the cashless welfare card pending “credible longitudinal research” to support its benefits.
“The positive outcomes for children in kinship care are astounding, with many of our most traumatised children being ‘turned away’ from a life of isolation and loneliness to one of fulfilment and ongoing connection with family,” the group’s log of claims said.
- kinshipcarersvictoria.org (03) 9372-2422.
