Current investigations

The Inquiry will launch a series of investigations into abuse and neglect that occurred in State and faith-based care settings, and into themes and issues. 

Investigations will give a voice to those victims and survivors of abuse and neglect in care who want to share their experiences. They will allow the Inquiry to look back and make findings about what happened and why, and also to look forward and make meaningful recommendations for change to the way New Zealand cares for children, young people and vulnerable adults.  

Investigations will use different ways of gathering information to answer the questions in the Terms of Reference, including witness statements, research, roundtables, hui and fono, analysis of anonymised information from private sessions and written accounts, public hearings, submissions, and policy analysis.

Most care setting investigations will select institutions as case studies to closely examine particular issues, for example a school or a hospital. Thematic investigations may also have case studies on particular issues such as redress processes. Most case studies will include public hearings.

At the end of most, if not all, of the investigations the Inquiry will publish an investigation report which will include findings and recommendations.

Criteria for selection

The Inquiry will apply the following criteria in selecting investigation topics that:

1. Address the matters in the Terms of Reference
2. Respond to information from private sessions, investigations, written accounts and research
3. Respond to areas of particular concern among survivors, survivor advocates and/or the public
4. Identify areas most likely to lead to meaningful recommendations.

Criteria for selection of case studies

A case study can focus on a care institution, a setting, a particular theme or kaupapa, a systemic issue or a group of people/s. In selecting case studies within investigations, the Inquiry will apply the four general criteria above, and the following additional criteria:

1. Diversity of care settings and subject-matter in each State and faith-based care setting investigation
2. The scope (including number and nature) of allegations of abuse, and whether the proposed case study could be an exemplar of abuse occurring in the setting
3. Whether a State or faith-based institution appears to have facilitated or failed to prevent abuse
4. The likely availability of evidence including witnesses and documentary material to enable close examination of what occurred
5. The extent to which there was accountability for alleged abuse
6. Recognition and representation of Māori based on Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its principles
7. National diversity – geographic range and ethnic, gender, social and cultural diversity should be represented
8. Recognition and representation of disproportionately impacted peoples, such as Māori, Pacific, and people with disabilities
9. Representation, visibility and participation of people with disabilities, people with mental illness, women and girls, and the LGBQTI/rainbow community in the selection of themes, issues and institutions.