Advice & Consultation
Supporting you through a child protection concern as it's happening
When child protection concerns arise, organisations need timely, independent and trusted support. Child Matters can help both individuals and organisations through a concern regarding the safety and/or wellbeing of a child or young person.
Are they in immediate danger?
Dial 111 for Police.
Make a report of concern
Phone Oranga Tamariki on 0508 FAMILY (326 459) or fill out the online form.
Contact Child Matters for advice
Phone 07 838 3370 for free, confidential advice.
What level of support do you require?
Take into account the severity of the situation you are concerned about, if it is a one-off situation or ongoing, as well as how recently the incident or observation has occurred.
Early Advice
Get free and confidential child protection advice over-the-phone.
You may use this service if you're unsure whether a situation either you or the staff or whānau you're supporting is a child protection concern. You may also reach out if you notice worrying changes in a child’s behaviour or wellbeing, or need assurance on decision making such as when to share information or make a report.
This service can include:
One-off consultation
Risk assessment
Advice on next steps
Guidance on managing disclosures
Recommendations on whether further support or consultation is required
Incident Response Consultation
In-depth support to guide you through or manage a child protection incident as it happens.
For more complex or ongoing situations, we can tailor step-by-step guidance, or hands-on management. Particularly valuable for Designated People or professionals who carry responsibility for child protection decision-making. A fee applies for this service.
This service can include:
Guidance on responding to disclosures or allegations
Expert advice and actionable steps to manage the situation
Liaising with statutory agencies and assisting with reporting and documentation
Undertaking a risk and safety assessment
Advice on managing concerns involving staff or volunteers
Summary report and recommendations for handling future incidents
Ongoing consultation as a situation evolves
Our Expertise
The Child Matters team consists of knowledgeable experts who have extensive experience across a range of sectors including social services, education, investigation, and frontline practice. We understand the real-world pressures people face when concerns arise and provide advice that is practical, grounded, and empathetic to any given situation.
We focus on clear, confident decision making to deliver a child-centred, trauma-informed, and most importantly, safe response.
