Mother's letter shows impact of social workers

Kate worked alongside the mother for a year and they formed a close relationship. However, it took strong perseverance including numerous home visits and phone calls to build trust.

“She had a pre-determined idea about Oranga Tamariki and was resisting our support," Kate says.

"Many times I visited her home and called her phone but she hung up on me or told me to leave. I could see she was stuck in a rut but also had huge potential to make a better life for herself and her children.”

The mother was in an abusive relationship and, as shown in the letter, was pregnant and intended to adopt the baby out because she didn’t feel equipped to care for it.

“There had been times when she slammed the door in my face, but I continued to try and get through to her. I could see she had huge potential to make positive changes in her life.”

Eventually, after Kate's relentless purseverance, she let her barrier down and accepted support. 

“When she finally let me into her home it was such a relief as we were able to start wrapping supports around her and her kids.”

This included a midwife who supported her throughout her pregnancy along with Maternity Mental Health, Barnardos who run a parenting through separation course, and Ngāti Hine Health Trust to learn strategies for a safe, loving home.

Because of this combined support, the mother is no longer involved with Oranga Tamariki and is living a happier and safer life with her children.

“I’m so proud of her for being brave, accepting support and making important changes in her life," Kate says.

"The safety and wellbeing of her children was at the heart of this.”

Kate has been a social worker with Oranga Tamariki at Teaotahi Site in Whangarei for nearly two years and before that she worked with Family Works and Women’s Refuge.

She says stories like this show how social workers often have to cope with a lot of resistance before we can provide care and support for a family.