Abuse in care survivor: Two years on from the inquiry, I’m despondent

Two years after the release of New Zealand's Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care, survivor Keith Wiffin describes himself as despondent, feeling that the government has failed to deliver meaningful change despite the massive investment and public attention surrounding the inquiry. Wiffin, who has spent two decades advocating for accountability, says the inquiry, costing nearly $200 million, has largely amounted to little more than symbolic gestures. He argues that survivors have been disbelieved, disrespected, and even driven to suicide during the process, while many received only minimal financial compensation compared to the trauma they endured. Wiffin expressed deep frustration with the lack of tangible progress since the inquiry concluded. He criticized Minister Erica Stanford for speaking of a "respectful process," arguing that she fails to grasp the harsh realities faced by survivors. According to Wiffin, the 3,000 individuals who courageously shared their stories during the inquiry were effectively betrayed, as the government appears to ignore the findings and recommendations made by the commission. He believes that behind the scenes, officials continue to resist implementing changes, treating the inquiry as a completed task rather than a call to action. Survivors seeking compensation must navigate complex and often exploitative processes, according to Wiffin. While they can directly approach the Ministry of Social Development, he advises working through advocacy groups and legal representatives instead. He claims these systems prey on vulnerable individuals, offering small settlements that prevent survivors from pursuing larger claims. This, he argues, is fundamentally unfair and does not reflect the long-term suffering caused by the abuse they endured in state care. At a recent gathering outside Parliament, Wiffin and other survivors laid flowers collected from institutions where abuse occurred, marking the second anniversary of the inquiry. He described how the current redress system focuses too heavily on monetary compensation, ignoring broader support mechanisms recommended by the commission. These included access to healthcare, education, housing, and counseling services without additional costs. Wiffin recounted his personal struggles with dental care, attributing them to the neglect he experienced during his time in state care. He emphasized that no dental care was ever provided to him or others during their time in custody. The inquiry proposed a comprehensive redress model centered on holistic well-being, with financial compensation being only one aspect of the solution. However, Wiffin feels the government has reverted to outdated systems that offer minimal financial relief. He noted that many survivors are forced to accept these inadequate offers due to their precarious financial situations, leaving them unable to challenge the terms. Wiffin pointed out that the government continues to be influenced by officials with longstanding ties to the child welfare system, many of whom remain in powerful positions. These individuals, he claimed, actively resist reforms and fight survivors in court, prolonging the redress process for up to a decade. He highlighted that several survivors have died waiting for compensation, underscoring the urgency of addressing systemic failures. He also spoke about the lack of support survivors receive upon leaving care, emphasizing that the state often leaves them to fend for themselves. Many emerge from care with limited education, few job prospects, and unresolved trauma. Wiffin called for a complete overhaul of the system, urging policymakers to prioritize the well-being of survivors beyond financial reparations. His message is clear: the inquiry should not be remembered as a missed opportunity, but as a catalyst for lasting reform.