The Family Centre Social Policy Research Unit

Welcome to The Family Centre Social Policy Research Unit, located at 71 Woburn Road in Lower Hutt, New Zealand. As a leading cultural and social policy research agency, we are dedicated to making a positive impact on our community and beyond.

At The Family Centre, we operate under a unique three tikanga (cultural) organisational structure, consisting of Māori, Pacific Island, and Pākehā (European) sections. While each section works independently, we also collaborate and share resources, fostering an interdependent approach to our work.

Our primary focus is social policy research, where we strive to understand and address the most pressing issues facing our society. As a community-based NGO, we not only conduct research but also offer family therapy services and engage in community development work. This holistic approach allows us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families.

In addition to our local efforts, we are also engaged in international research collaborations, education, and teaching. Through these partnerships, we contribute to global knowledge and understanding of social policy.

As a registered charity and not-for-profit organization, we rely on the support of generous donors to fund our research, family therapy, community development, and education initiatives. If you would like to contribute, please email Mike Deacon, and your donation will directly support our important work.

The impact of our research can be seen in our publications, which are disseminated in research and policy journals, as well as popular media and publications worldwide. Our dedication to sharing knowledge ensures that our findings reach a broad audience, driving positive change on a global scale.

Notably, our New Zealand Poverty Measurement Project has played a significant role in shaping the Child Poverty Reduction Act 2018. This collaboration, led by Charles Waldegrave of the FCSPRU and Bob Stephens of the School of Government at Victoria University of Wellington, introduced seven out of the ten measures used in the act.

We also tackle important issues such as elder abuse, as highlighted in the New Zealand Longitudinal Study of Ageing. This study, conducted by Charles Waldegrave, provides valuable insights into this concerning issue. The technical report is available from the Office for Seniors within the Ministry of Social Development.

Another key focus of our research is the New Zealand Living Wage. Our Measurement Review report examines the impact of the 2018 Living Wage, which stands at $20.55, surpassing the minimum wage. The Families Package has influenced the expected level of the living wage for 2018, lowering it. However, without this support, the hourly rate would be $22.45 instead of $20.55.

Furthermore, we have produced a report on the social and economic impacts of housing tenure, specifically focusing on the transition from social renting to housing independence. This report, created for the New Zealand Housing Foundation by Charles Waldegrave and Michaela Urbanova, sheds light on the importance of stable housing for individuals and families.

At The Family Centre, we pride ourselves on our commitment to inclusivity and diversity. We actively engage Māori and Pacific Peoples in co-creating research on loneliness and social isolation, challenging Western perspectives in New Zealand. By embracing different cultural perspectives, we gain a more comprehensive understanding of these complex issues.

To learn more about our dedicated staff and their expertise, please visit our staff biographies and staff directory on our website.

Thank you for visiting The Family Centre Social Policy Research Unit. We are proud to serve our community and contribute to positive social change.