WELLINGTON Instead of punitive welfare reforms, the Government should focus on helping people into work, Christian social agencies say. The Government last month announced welfare reforms in line with election promises made in 2008.
The unemployed will have to reapply for a benefit after a year and undergo work testing. Domestic purposes benefit (DPB) recipients with children aged six and over will be work-tested and will have to look for part-time work. Sickness beneficiaries assessed as being able to do part-time work will face the same obligations.
As sanctions, benefits could be halved, suspended or cancelled.
The changes will be introduced over 12 months, starting in October.
Social Development Minister Paula Bennett said of beneficiaries who dont make a real demonstrable effort to find work that I'm afraid the dream is over. She also said the welfare system will help those who need it without being a lifestyle choice for those who dont.
Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand and the New Zealand Council of Christian Social Services (NZCCSS) have slammed the language used.
Caritas research and advocacy co-ordinator Lisa Beech said the long-term unemployed often face complex needs and disadvantages, so they dont need to hear punitive language.
But Cabinet papers show the initial target group is DPB beneficiaries who recently worked, who are already working or have had recent work experience or training, she said.
So the rhetoric is inappropriately aimed, Caritas said, adding that it is also worried at the ministers dismissive reaction to Bill of Rights Act concerns.
It is also disappointed no consultation took place with beneficiary groups or non-governmental agencies before the policy announcement.
Caritas will prepare a select committee submission, guided by Catholic social teaching and experiences of groups that work with beneficiaries.
NZCCSS president Shaun Robinson said it is the supply of work that influences benefit numbers, not threats and language that encourages people to blame beneficiaries.
It would be better to focus the money being allocated to punitive measures on genuine case management and training that supports people into work.
Mr Robinson said a few people exploit the system, but most beneficiaries struggle to survive and the reforms are crushing a walnut with a sledgehammer, which will hurt many people.
The Child Poverty Action Group wonders what will happen to beneficiaries with sick or disabled children.
It said the package looks like a repeat of the failed policies of the 1990s.