Advice – Where to turn for support

Whether it’s parenting struggles, relationship difficulties, separation, financial stress or family violence – support is available. At the CAB, our volunteers regularly assist with separation and divorce, strained relationships, child custody, and relationship property conflicts. While we often see people after separation, there’s plenty of support available beforehand.

Parenting and families
If your family is struggling, seek advice early. We can guide you to free and fee-paying services including:

• Personalised parent coaching and education programmes
• Counselling and therapy for families, couples, individuals, children and youth
• Support for parents managing toddlers or challenging adolescent behaviour

Every situation is unique. Talk to us so we can recommend services tailored to your needs.

Partners and relationships
Before considering separation, explore relationship counselling. Also known as couples or marriage counselling, it helps partners understand themselves and each other, identify sources of conflict, and make positive changes. Free and paid options are available. Visit www.cab.org.nz and search:

• What can I expect from relationship counselling?
• Is there any way we can get free relationship counselling?

Family violence or harm
If you’re experiencing family violence, you are not alone. It’s not your fault, and help is available. Abuse can be physical, emotional, psychological, sexual or financial.

We can direct you to urgent support or advise you about counselling and education programmes for both victim-survivors and users of violence. This is available online or in person for women, men, youth and children.

If you are experiencing family violence you can search for advice online without it appearing in your browser’s history. Look for The Shielded Site logo at the bottom of the CAB website or on major NZ retailer, banking, and government sites like WINZ or IRD. From last October, victims of family violence may be able to end their marriage or civil union without the previously required two-year separation (Ashley’s Law), making it easier to access protection and move forward.

Financial stress and budgeting
Financial hardship affects individuals and families deeply. Free, confidential services can help with budgeting, debt support and financial mentoring. Low-income individuals and beneficiaries may qualify for extra assistance through WINZ (e.g. food grants, accommodation supplements, emergency help) or IRD (e.g tax credits, family support).

We can connect you with free advice and advocacy to understand your rights and entitlements. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, experienced volunteers at your local CAB are here to help. Sometimes, knowing where to turn is the first step toward moving forward.

Visit Wellsford Community Centre, 1 Matheson Rd, Tues-Fri 10am-2pm (By phone on Mon 10am-2pm), phone 09 423 7333, email wellsford@cab.org.nz. Visit Warkworth satellite office, Tues & Fri 10am-2pm, phone (09) 423 7333, email warkworth@cab.org.nz. Web: www.cab.org.nz