WHAT IS FAMILY START? |
Family Start is a free, confidential, home-based support service for families with a baby. | 
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WHY FAMILY START? |
| The first few years of a child's life are the most important for their future. Family Start supports and educates parents and families so children have the best possible start in life. |
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WHAT DOES FAMILY START DO? |
Family Start provides information, practical support, advice, advocacy, parent education and links with other services for you, your baby and family. | 
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WHO CAN USE FAMILY START? |
 
| All pregnant mothers to be, families with a newborn child, or any family who has a child under the age of twelve months living in Horowhenua and Otaki. |
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HOW DOES A PERSON ACCESS FAMILY START? |
By being referred by a health professional such as your doctor, midwife, hospital maternity services, well child service, Plunket, Tamariki Ora or by contacting Family Start directly. | 
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WHAT HAPPENS AFTER FAMILY START HAS BEEN CONTACTED? |
| A Family Start Supervisor will make an appointment with the pregnant mother, parent or caregiver to explain the Family Start service. At this time parents or caregivers are given the opportunity to choose to join with Family Start. |
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IF I AGREE TO FAMILY START WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO ME? |
A Family/Whanau worker will be appointed to support you, your baby and family in the areas of health and well being, positive parenting, child development and to improve your circumstances. | 
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A FAMILY / WHANAU WORKER CAN HELP AND SUPPORT YOU WITH: |
- Household Management
- Relationships
- Employment
- Legal Matters
- Career Direction
- Tou Haputanga / Ante Natal
| - Parenting
- Information
- Mana Tane
- Housing
- Well Health / Ill Health
- Basic Life Skills
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HOW LONG CAN A BABY AND THEIR FAMILY STAY WITH FAMILY START? |
Up to a maximum of five years, if needed. | 
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WHAT IF THE FAMILY WANT TO WITHDRAW FROM FAMILY START? |
| Family Start is a voluntary service - you can choose to come on to the programme.
You can choose to leave Family Start whenever it suits you. |
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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION |
For further information contact our Levin Office on
(06) 368-8678 | |
