Heading in the right direction

Ashburton mum Emma* says that connecting with the Family Wellbeing Service team has been one of the best things she’s ever done.

Following a referral from Oranga Tamariki about 12 months ago, she was put in touch with a Family Wellbeing Service volunteer worker who she could regularly meet with over a cuppa.

“They have been a great sounding board,” she says. “They ask how things are going and help to point me in the right direction. I’ve never been turned down or away if I’ve needed them, and they are never pushy, they take everything at my pace.”

Having this strong support has brought Emma’s family closer and given her the confidence to ask for help when needed. With the original issue now resolved, Emma continues to catch up with the Family Wellbeing Service volunteer for a check-in once a week when she’s not working.

“It’s not that I need the meetings now, but I know that things would be harder without that support,” she says.

“I want to thank the Family Wellbeing Service. They have been a rock of stability for me, helping me keep on track, and I always know that they are there if I just want some help and a chat.”

*Names and photos have been changed to protect the identity of the individuals.