In June of last year, the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) cancelled the Family Start contracts of five providers; Papakura Marae, Turuki Health Care, and Te Whānau o Waipareira Trust from Auckland, Te Hā o te Whānau Trust in Ōpōtiki, and Porirua's Te Roopu Āwhina.
MSD says it was because of inconsistent and unsafe social work practises. However, today saw the re-launch of Family Start at Papakura Marae and Turuki Health Care under the umbrella of service provider, Te Kōtahitangā.
Despite support from Te Whānau o Waipereira Trust for the re-launch of Family Start in Māngere and Papakura, John Tamihere is still displeased with MSD's cutbacks.
However, Te Kōtahitangā and its numerous service providers now celebrate a new beginning, a new partnership, and $7mil in funding for Family Start over the next three years.