Balanced News: State must work with primary caregivers on safety plan for at-risk children – coroner

A coroner’s report has highlighted government agencies’ failure to protect a toddler who was killed by his mother’s violent boyfriend in Southland, New Zealand, eight years ago. The report states that the agencies were explicitly warned about the boyfriend’s violent nature and risk to children. The coroner’s sole recommendation is to improve safety plans for at-risk children, suggesting that such plans should be developed in consultation with the child’s primary caregiver. The agencies involved, including Oranga Tamariki (formerly CYF), Police, Corrections, and health agencies, have been criticized for their inadequate response and communication regarding the risks.