Child Youth and Family have apologised for nearly placing two toddlers alongside a youth going through a sexual treatment programme.
Government body Child Youth and Family arranged for two young girls, aged 2 and 3, to be placed in a respite home for two days earlier this month.
The temporary placement was to give the carer, the girls' grandmother, a break over one weekend.
The arrangement was made for two days earlier this month.
However, it was discovered that a child at the location was due to go through a STOP children's treatment programme, designed to help children between the ages of 5 and 11 who have displayed concerning sexualized behaviour.
It is understood that upon this realisation, the two girls were not placed at the home.
Southern CYF regional director Kelly Anderson has since apologised to all of the affected parties for the mistake.
"It is totally inappropriate that arrangements were made to place these two children in that placement for the weekend,'' she said.
"The children's mum and grandmother are rightfully angry and we have apologised to both.''
She said appropriate action had been taken to ensure the incident was not repeated.
"While thankfully no harm was done, it is extremely concerning that this occurred. It falls short of what we expect from our staff. I have formally spoken with the staff involved.
"I have looked into how this happened and as a result introduced new rules and checks to ensure this cannot happen again.
"We have put in place a robust respite plan that they are now confident is safe and appropriate. We will support this grandmother fully to care for her grandchildren.''
The new plan is understood to currently be in action.
