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CYF Approval for OSCAR Services is an assessment process carried out by Child Youth and Family. It ensures that OSCAR programmes are properly run and take place in a safe environment.
To become approved, your programme must show the CYF Approvals Assessor that it meets the minimum standards set out in the Standards for Approval for OSCAR programmes, published by CYF.
The standards are quite basic and reflect that your programme meets certain minimum standards to ensure that children are safe operates in accordance with all relevant legislation has in place procedures to ensure proper financial accountability.
The 11 standards are 
 Programme environment
Programme operation
Health and Safety
Child Protection
Supervision
Emergencies
Staff
Buildings and Facilities
Recordkeeping
Finance
Camps (if applicable)
Programmes notify CYF that they would like to become approved. CYF can provide copies of the Standards for Approval for OSCAR Programmes which outline the minimum standards. There is also an accompanying Provider Guide to explain the standards in more details and how programmes can meet them.
The approval is reviewed approximately every two years. CYF does not charge any fee for the approval process.
There are at least 10 great reasons to be CYF Approved for OSCAR Services
You will be assured that you provide a standard level of care.
It helps ensure your programme is safe.
It will give your parents confidence that you run a professional programme.
It demonstrates to the community that you are providing a safe place for children to be in their out of school hours.
You can apply for government funding for your programme.
Your parents can apply for a fee subsidy from Work and Income.
You can promote your approval status to the community.
You will get to know an OSCAR Advisor who can give you advice and support.
The approval process is free.
It is a fair and reasonable process that you can move through at your own pace.
Your CYF Assessor outlines clearly what is required as you move through the process.
THE OSCAR FOUNDATION STRONGLY RECOMMENDS THAT ALL OSCAR PROGRAMMES BECOME CYF APPROVED FOR OSCAR SERVICES
Contact your regional OSCAR Advisor for any assistance or support you need as you undertake the Approval process.
Your OSCAR programme must be CYF Approved for OSCAR if your parents want to apply for the OSCAR Subsidy from Work and Income or you are applying for funding under the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) OSCAR Funding.
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