This initiative was about demonstrating how local, central government and respective communities can collaborate in the long term development of children and young people in Auckland, while at the same time ensuring young people have opportunities for personal growth, participation within their communities and in the government decision making process.
Supporting children and young people's development is beneficial for everyone. It creates a sense of belonging, positive connections with other young people, their families and their communities. It also assists towards the development of a skilled workforce, a healthy population, capable parents for the next generation, well prepared future leaders and community decision-makers.
To have a sustainable future for children and young people, it is necessary to enhance and balance environmental, social, cultural and economic effects in all decisions, encourage a collaborative approach and develop knowledge on what works best.
Three key projects were set up to facilitate this process.
The Northcote Child and Youth Development Project
Northcote youth, the community, local and central and government agencies worked together to develop an action plan around the needs of the Northcote children and young people. This project was about listening to the views and opinions of children and young people, involving them in decision-making processes, promoting evidence based approaches; and encouraging agencies to collaborate to improve services for children and young people. Northcote was chosen for this project as it reflects what Auckland might look like over time with its diverse population.
Regional Child & Youth Engagement Project
This project focused on supporting children and young people in participating in the local government decision making process, to encourage learning for sustainable development and identify what works best in engaging young people in the democratic processes throughout the Auckland region.
Regional Child and Youth Development Forums
This forum was held quarterly for central, local government agencies and community to share information and learn about: child and youth development, youth participation approaches, sustainable development, best practice and government collaboration.
Northcote Child and Youth Project Reports
The Statistical Profile provides a snapshot of what is happening to children, young people and their families in Northcote and the environment in which children and young people in Northcote are being raised. The profile can be used as a tool for planning and delivering future services in the Northcote community. This is published on the Ministry of Social Development web site.
The project has developed an Indicator List which records where local and TLA statistical information can be sourced and is useful for community planning and reports. The Indicator List will help communities collect and compile good quality information about their community. The Indicator List is regularly updated as contact details change and more or better information comes on line.
The Methodology Report outlines the methodology for producing the Statistical Profile of Northcote and the Northcote Database of organisations and agencies providing services to children, young people and their families in the Northcote area.
A Formative Evaluation of the Project covers feedback from the first round of key informant interviews regarding the Northcote Child and Youth Development project and outlines key learnings to October 2005. These two reports will assist those involved with youth, community and interagency collaboration projects.
The project also commissioned a literature review of effective youth development practices, approaches & methods. This review will aid anyone involved with youth development, consultation or services.
