A much-needed Christchurch home for at-risk youth has been forced to temporarily close its doors. 

Chris Lynch Media can reveal Barnardos foster home in Parklands has closed.

It’s understood staff resignations caused the closure. 

On the Barnardos website it said “specialist group homes provide a safe and stable home for young people aged 12–17 with at-risk behaviour, where they can develop their strengths and realise their potential.

We provide their day-to-day care while they attend offsite education or training and therapeutic treatment. The young people we work with are all referred to the service by Oranga Tamariki.”

Barnardos referred all media comments to Oranga Tamariki.

Regional Manager of Māori Partnerships and Communities Keitiria McCaughey said “Oranga Tamariki is working with Barnados regarding the future of the home in Parklands.

The home has been temporarily closed due to staff shortages.

Oranga Tamariki has arranged temporary, alternative accommodation for affected children.

Their safety and wellbeing remains our shared priority.”