We are effective in enhancing capability when we equip our people with policies, systems, tools and working environments that enable them to be effective. We will:
Progress to date
We have successfully recruited and retained Pacific staff from within New Zealand and across the Pacific thereby increasing our capability to respond to the needs of Pacific offenders.
We have also designed Pacific induction and training programmes for all our staff to help us in the work we do.
The establishment of the National and Regional Advisers Pacific and Pacific staff networks have provided a mechanism for the Department to engage with vibrant Pacific communities and to help us achieve our outcomes and priorities.
Looking forward
All staff have a role in improving outcomes for Pacific offenders. Staff will need a clear understanding about the unique factors related to Pacific offending as well as an understanding about the differences between ethnicities within Pacific communities. This will help staff to better understand and identify appropriate community support systems and services.
Pacific staff bring with them language skills that will assist us in improving outcomes for Pacific offenders particularly in our daily interactions with Pacific Island born offenders and their families. When Pacific offenders are required to attend more formal proceedings such as disciplinary or court hearings, the services of an authorised interpreter, rather than Pacific staff, need to be engaged.
Supporting Pacific staff who are motivated to work together as a network can help to maintain their motivation. These networks can also help to identify at local levels, where we can make greater gains in improving outcomes for Pacific offenders.
Sharing resources such as Fautua Pasefika wherever possible across groups and services will provide us with alternative options to consider in our work with Pacific offenders and communities.
What progress will look like
We will know we are successful when we see: