Children missing school because parents can't afford fuel, social worker says

Children in rural areas of South Auckland are increasingly missing school due to financial strain on their families, particularly the inability to afford fuel for transportation, according to a school social worker. Eloise Jowitt, working at Manurewa Central School, described the situation as a growing challenge, with families unable to cover basic expenses such as fuel, food, and heating. The issue has intensified during colder months, forcing some children to remain at home instead of attending classes. Jowitt noted that students in rural areas face particular difficulties, as their nearest schools are not within walking distance. On certain days, notably rainy ones, the number of absent students rises significantly, often due to a lack of essential items like raincoats or proper footwear. She explained that the rising costs of energy, fuel, and food have placed unprecedented pressure on families, making it difficult for them to meet daily needs. Some households are resorting to extreme measures, such as sharing a single room for warmth and using household appliances like dryers for heating. Shaun Greaves, chief executive of Presbyterian Support Northern, confirmed that the organization’s team of school social workers is encountering an increase in referrals from families struggling with the cost of living. He highlighted the impact of fuel prices on rural schools, where children are sometimes kept at home due to the high cost of transportation. This decision, while financially necessary for families, limits educational opportunities for the children involved. Presbyterian Support Northern has launched winter appeals aimed at supporting families facing hardship. Greaves emphasized the importance of government assistance in alleviating the burden of fuel, food, and electricity costs. He stated that timely support could significantly influence the long-term prospects of affected children. According to the Ministry of Social Development, the number of individuals receiving the Jobseeker benefit rose to 218,500 in the June quarter, an increase of nearly 2,500 compared to the same period last year. During this time, approximately 86,500 people transitioned off the benefit and into employment, marking an increase of almost 6,000. Additionally, thousands more received hardship grants for food, with numbers increasing by over 8,000. Despite these statistics, Jowitt observed that applications for hardship grants are frequently denied, leaving families with few options. She expressed frustration over the difficulty in securing support for those in dire need, noting that even as a social worker advocating for their circumstances, she often faces challenges in obtaining necessary aid. Mike Piper, principal of Manurewa Central School, acknowledged the cost of living as the primary obstacle to consistent school attendance. He emphasized the value of having students present at school, offering support through meals and supplies when possible. The school staff strive to ensure that all children can attend classes regularly, recognizing the critical role education plays in shaping their futures. The situation underscores the broader economic pressures faced by many New Zealand families, particularly in rural regions. As the government seeks guidance on maintaining support for those affected by the fuel crisis, the experiences of social workers and educators highlight the urgent need for solutions that address both immediate and long-term challenges.