Retailer's Group Meeting

The Times-Age asked for an update on the cross-agency group established at the instigation of the Mayor after a meeting of retailers and businesses in December to discuss anti-social behaviour.

The following information was provided:

The cross-agency leadership group has to date met twice.

At its second meeting, it was agreed that the group’s focus would be on supporting high-risk youth in Wairarapa.

The approach will involve providing customised support to families by bringing together a sub-group of individuals who work with youth in the community. This will include developing a holistic plan that addresses the unique needs of each family through initiatives such as MSD mentoring, alternative education, cultural programs, etc. The group acknowledged that different approaches may be needed for Pasifika and Māori.

At the end of April, it is planned arrange another meeting and extend invitations to Carterton and South Wairarapa, along with youth-focused individuals such as Wairarapa truancy leads, Wairarapa school principals at the primary/intermediate level, and head(s) of Wairarapa alternative education, in addition to iwi, Police, MSD, MoE, and Oranga Tamariki.