Charlotte succeeds with Janet’s support

Janet and Charlotte have been working together since Charlotte was 16. The ex-Taradale High School and Teen Parent Unit student is looking forward to a bright future in the health sector as she starts her studies at EIT this year.

Having Mason when she was 15, Charlotte has had to deal with many tasks and decisions. As well as good family support she credits Janet and the Te Kupenga Hauora – Ahuriri Youth Services team with helping her achieve her goals so far.

Goal setting, achieving NCEA levels 1-3, understanding and working with Work and Income NZ, working through her driver’s licences, sourcing work experience and volunteering opportunities, getting a First Aid Certificate and dealing with Studylink; Janet has been there to support Charlotte all the way along as she builds the life she wants for her and her son.

“I don’t think I’d handle not having her (Janet) anymore. We’re comfortable with each other and she knows Mason. It’s personal,” says Charlotte. Janet agrees, “It’s not like just having a client, we get to know our youth and their babies. We get to be with them when they experience unusual or hard times. Charlotte is pretty onto it. She’s achieved everything that she has aspired to so far.”

Mason will be going into home-based day care this year at his Nana’s and if Charlotte continues her education, Janet can continue to be her Youth Navigator until she turns 21. “Our service is flexible. We can help youth focus on what is required at the time,” says Janet.

The Youth Services team work with young parents as well as other youth that aren’t currently in education or employment. If you or someone you know could do with their help call 06 835 1840 and ask for Youth Services.