Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children has a commitment to putting tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of what we do. In our work, we aim to demonstrate these values:

• We put Tamariki first
• We believe Aroha is vital
• We respect the Mana of people
• We are Tika and Pono
• We value Whakapapa
• We recognise that Oranga is a journey

Our purpose is to ensure that all tamariki are in loving whānau and communities where oranga tamariki can be realised.  We believe that by getting involved early in their lives and showing love and care, we give children the best chance of growing into happy thriving New Zealanders

Mō te tÅ«nga | About the role

The role of a Caregiver Social Worker is varied and rewarding. The needs of caregivers are being brought to the forefront of practice in recognition of the important role they play in the lives of tamariki who cannot live safely at home. You will ensure our caregivers understand their part in a child's journey through care, are prepared with the skills and information they need to care and are supported to provide nurturing, safe and stable homes for tamariki. Your work will include supporting whanau and non-whanau caregivers, emergency and respite caregivers, and long-term caregivers.

Collaborating with the child's Social Worker will be a key component of the role as you work together to provide great outcomes for tamariki who need caring for. You'll also be working with other agencies and providers to ensure the needs of our caregivers are met.

Our team works from a strengths-based perspective and we are fully committed to achieving positive change for the tamariki, whanau and caregivers. You will receive a full induction into the role, regular training and supervision, and the support of a strong peer and leadership group. This role requires excellent assessment, communication and problem-solving skills, and the ability to work with caregivers from all walks of life who have varied motivations for providing care. Supporting and valuing caregivers is paramount, and you will put caregivers at the centre of everything you do.

Ngā pūmanawatanga ōu | What you will bring

Key requirements of the role include: 

• A recognised Social Work qualification by the Social Worker Registration Board (SWRB)
• Full registration with New Zealand's Social Worker Registration Board
• Demonstrated resilience, critical thinking and problem-solving techniques
• Upholding the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and demonstrating this in practice
• Having a good understanding of section 7(AA) of The Oranga Tamariki Act
• Passion and vision for caregivers and what they need to succeed
• Excellent relationship management skills
• Well-developed written and verbal communication skills
• A valid and clean New Zealand's driver's licence

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Oranga Tamariki offer an impartial remuneration package, that offers progression annually for experience through tenure. Annual remuneration for this position starts between $74,839.35 and $90,714.36 dependant on experience, with tenure-based progression steps above this range. We offer a vibrant and supportive team, flexible work options and a genuine commitment to wellbeing. We offer significant training and professional development so that you can thrive and grow. We welcome diversity and are committed to working in an inclusive and respectful way. This is your opportunity to apply your skills and experience to the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi.