Whanau navigators to support children of prisoners

At least 20,000 tamariki have a parent in prison. According to Treasury analysis of Stats New Zealand data, without the right support, they're 10 times more likely to end up in the justice system themselves. In a New Zealand first, charity Pillars Ka Pou Whakahou will be piloting a new support role with three whanau navigators at the Manukau District Court. The five-year pilot will see these navigators work alongside families and children following the sentencing of a parent, with the hope that more roles like these will be rolled out across Aotearoa. The programme development, youth and research lead Corrina Thompson spoke to John Campbell.