2 Apr 2025

Should charities volunteers who work with kids have background checks?

From Nine To Noon, 9:30 am on 2 April 2025
Close-up Of Person Hand Filling Criminal Background Check Application Form

Photo: 123RF

An advocate for tougher rules around who works with children is concerned there's no background checks required for charities volunteers.

Earlier this month a former Destiny Church youth leader was sent to prison for six years for the sexual abuse of several young boys.

Kiwa Hamiora-Te Hira pleaded guilty to a number of charges over a period of five years while he was involved in youth programmes.

So what is the duty of care charities are expected to meet when their volunteers are interacting with kids?

Safeguarding Children's Willow Duffy speaks with Kathryn.