Positive Support for Families & Whanau

"More than twenty years as a CYF caregiver and witnessing for myself the impact and dynamics from all sides. Following my own foster childrens' journey into adulthood and becoming parents.

Twice now taking my own cases through the complaints process and one as far as the Chief Executive. I have seen the positives and negatives that come with this.

I am able to see both sides of the coin with tips that can both support a placement (better access and relationships while children are in care) and better the relationships with social workers and caregivers where possible. Yes some are just impossible and others trainable.

A Mother and Grandmother and also having a young son via surrogacy without the need for court papers, as birthmother is part of the family in all its aspects. A proven history and a want to be able to put the child first. Being child focused I also believe very strongly that children should have their right to grow up with family as paramount. Out of family placements ONLY when there are no other options and if this is the case, support a greater need for children to still have positive contact with ALL their family unless where this is detrimental to the children.

Jinx has many skills. A solo mother, she has completed training in the following:

Financial Planning

Complex studies in Te Reo, Whakapapa and Maori tanga along with the Treaty of Waitangi

Life Journey studies

Numeracy and literacy studies.

Employment skills

Personal growth and development studies

Parenting courses

Many of the above studies and a number not listed give Jinx the ability to work with families wishing to have a culturally sensitive support person who can converse in, or in part in a way they feel comfortable. Jinx works along side more experienced support workers however offers her own valued skills to our team. Jinx is also able to support those wishing to use this time to improve personal development by gaining on going training. Jinx having had both positive and negative experiences within the fostercare system also brings valued knowledge of her own experiences and positive outcomes.

For parents, who understandably have a number of fears, her words are very reassuring. Jinx is a fine example that with good support and nurturing, the outcomes for 'child in care' does not have to be a negative one. Her perspective can also help parents build better 'after fostercare' relationships with their children on their return home. This either because they have been 'returned' or have 'aged out' This supports PANIC's view that every story can have a happy ending by using many of the skills gained by those who have walked a mile in your children's shoes.

Angel

I have no formal qualifications in any way but grew up like so many with violence, abuse and abandonment. I went on to be a wife and mother of 4 (and many more if you count all the ones that end up on my doorstep) who is passionate about making this world a safer place for all children.

Supporting families to be the best parents they can be, by helping them find the services, information and assistance they need to succeed and to be there when there is a dark moment to say “hey you are not alone” is where I like to help most.

Children are always at the forefront for me and what is in their best interests especially in regards to their own safety and wellbeing. Much of my time is spent dedicated to prevention and awareness of child abuse in New Zealand and the plight of kiwi families. I believe there is much we can all do to help reduce child abuse and relieve the pressures felt by so many.

I do believe that many times organisations meant to protect our children have somehow lost children as their focus and for whatever reason, common sense seems to be lacking in many areas. So with my big heart I am here to help in any way I can.

Apple

Mother of 3 children, 2 of which have disabilities and is expecting her 4th. Married to a man who due to his work often spends many weeks/months away understands the added struggles this can bring and the issues surrounding repeated separation young children need to deal with as a result.

Working on her Bachelor of Applied Science Psychology Degree, in future to train as a child psychologist, or a hospital counsellor. At this time she is studying while raising her young children, but still has plenty of time to offer support.

Raised by a mother who is a foster parent, has witnessed the positive and negative side of dealing with CYFS and the effects on children. Has been a foster parent herself. She hopes in the future to put her experience in good use by letting parents know that they can get through what they are going through, and to never give up.

Has walked the walk. Enjoys collecting evidence and research in all matters pertaining to child welfare. Government, family court and other matters. If something needs found Sweets will do all she can to find it. Like CSI she digs where others fear to tread picking up clues that lead to strong evidence of failings. Willing to put pen to paper she will address an issue found and has the skill in wording to make concerns heard.