Te Kākano / Family Start is a programme that helps give tamariki the best possible start in life.
It provides free, intensive home-visiting support to whānau who may be struggling with challenges or problems that make it harder for them to provide their tamariki with the care and support they need.
Our Te Kākano / Family Start whānau workers work alongside whānau to:
- help tamariki grow strong, learn, stay healthy and have positive relationships;
- help whānau be more confident about caring for their child;
- help whānau create a strong and positive future for their child.
Who can take part in Te Kākano / Family Start?
Te Kakano / Family Start is a voluntary programme for whānau who are struggling with challenges and problems that put the health, education or wellbeing of their child at risk.
Visits from our Te Kākano/ Family Start whānau workers can start in the early stages of pregnancy (from 12 weeks) and referrals are taken up until a baby is one year old. In some cases it’s also possible to refer children aged between one and two.
If the whānau identifies ongoing needs, whānau workers can stay involved until the child goes to school.
How to make a referral
Referrals can be made in two ways:
- Whānau can refer themselves
- Whānau can be referred by another organisation who is working with them or who has worked with them in the past, such as a midwife or a district health board staff member.
Download this form to make a referral or call us on 04 237 7612 or email keyliaisonfamilystart@wesleyca.org.nz