A better future for children & young people in care
16 November 2009
UnitingCare Burnside welcomes today’s Australian Government apology to The Forgotten Australians. The apology highlights the need for community commitment to strong outcomes for more than 30 000 children and young people currently in out-of-home care.
Established in 1911 with the provision of cottage accommodation to disadvantaged children, Burnside has also apologised to children and young people who grew up in institutional care. Burnside Chief Executive Officer Jane Woodruff reflected on this morning’s speeches from the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader.
“Each year many of the children and young people who have grown up in our care return to Burnside for a reunion: I have had the privilege of sharing the stories of these remarkable men and women.
“I would like to apologise for Burnside’s involvement in the suffering that many children and young people experienced in care”, Ms Woodruff said.
Burnside is also a member of UnitingCare Children, Young People and Families which helped more than 23 000 children, young people and families in NSW in 2008. This work includes advocacy together with children and young people in out-of-home care.
“We all have an obligation to make sure children and young people who are unable to live with their parents have the very best start in life.
“Together with our State and Federal Government colleague, we are committed to a better future for vulnerable children and young people, especially through the National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children.
“Working together, we can do more for today’s generation of children and young people in out-of-home care”, Ms Woodruff added.
Media Contact: Mark Warren, 02 9407 3217 or 0414 617 806
