Kainga Ora is a 6 week programme for children that have been exposed to conflict in their home. Through the group programme they create a safety plan which identifies the range of supports they have in their life, how and when they should access them. KO also builds children’s confidence, self esteem as well as self management skills by using such techniques as breathing and mindfulness. The unique thing about this programme is that it brings parents and caregivers into the process for two of the group sessions so that they can share in the development of the safety plan and understand both what the child is learning as well as what the child needs from them. Being part of Catholic Social Services, parents are then encouraged to access our other services such as parenting courses, individualised parenting plans and counselling to ensure that the plans the children make are supported by the adults in their lives.

Courses are held on demand. Contact Catholic Social Services and ask for Liz or Christine

It can often be quite helpful for children to have a safe place to talk about what is going on for them. CSS has counsellors in Dunedin that are experienced in helping kids make sense of what is happening and how to get through. All counselling with children will be in consultation with the adults in their life to ensure that this service provides great outcomes for them