The Children's Minister says saving Barnados' helpline for under-12s was a mutual decision reached with the Prime Minister. 

The 0800 What's Up support line and multiple other services were at risk of closure after the Government directed Oranga Tamariki to find savings last year. 

Now, Minister Karen Chhour has pressed pause on Oranga Tamariki reviewing such contracts. 

She says she didn't act because Chris Luxon became involved - but because the agency contacted her with concerns.  

"I'm glad they reached out, that's what I've been asking agencies to do over the last year - if you have a concern about something, reach out to me and I'll look into it."

LISTEN ABOVE

The Children's Minister says saving Barnados' helpline for under-12s was a mutual decision reached with the Prime Minister.&nbsp;
The 0800 What's Up support line and multiple other services were at risk of closure after the Government directed Oranga Tamariki to find savings last year.&nbsp;
Now, Minister Karen Chhour has pressed pause on Oranga Tamariki reviewing such contracts.&nbsp;
She says she didn't act because Chris Luxon became involved - but because the agency contacted her with concerns. &nbsp;
"I'm glad they reached out, that's what I've been asking agencies to do over the last year - if you have a concern about something, reach out to me and I'll look into it."
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.

Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

Karen Chhour: Minister for Children explains decision to override Oranga Tamariki's move to pull funding from Barnardos helpline

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/d569a131-9417-409e-ac87-b2750053f83a/transcript