Olivia* is a 19-year-old single mother of two, who has grown up in extreme poverty with a mother who had mental health issues. Olivia’s eldest son is almost five and about to start school, whilst her youngest child is just two years old.
Twelve months ago, Olivia needed to move from her current rental home, but had trouble finding a suitable place in time to avoid emergency housing. All she could find was a rundown house, which fell far below the Healthy Homes Standards, and had no option but to take it. The landlord charged cheap rent in lieu of not complaining, but there was a price to pay – the family’s health was beginning to decline. Whilst sick, her children were unable to attend preschool and Olivia was unable to attend school, so she was in constant catch up mode.
Olivia worked hard at school and passed level 3 NCEA, receiving several awards at her school prize giving. Olivia was determined to provide her children with a better life than she had and was keen to work part-time, once her eldest son started school, but suffered with low self-esteem and needed support to get started. This is where our Youth Service Coach Alannah began working with her.
