With support from Uniting Communities’ Newpin program, they are now reunited with their boys. Equipped with newfound skills, resources, and a supportive network, they’re more determined than ever to be the kind of parents their kids deserve.
The couple’s journey to reunification followed battles with addiction, homelessness, domestic violence, and mental health struggles. These risk factors informed a decision by the Department for Child Protection (DCP) to intervene and take the children into care.
Kate says the experience marked a turning point in their lives. After their children were taken into care, they realised they needed to make significant changes for the sake of their family.
To support their efforts, the department referred Kate and Matt to the New Parent and Infant Network, better known as Newpin – a program delivered by Uniting Communities and partially funded by a Social Impact Bond through Social Ventures Australia.
This innovative approach provides intensive therapeutic support to help parents reconnect with their young children and strengthen their family bonds.
Over nine months, Kate and Matt worked closely with the Newpin team to develop their parenting skills, rebuild their confidence, and prepare for the return of their boys. They also worked hard to address their substance use and mental health issues, paving the way for a more positive relationship for the couple.
“Newpin helped us a lot. We’ve grown so much as parents and as people over the past year,”
Twice a week, they participate in sessions that include parenting lessons, therapeutic support, and activities designed to strengthen their bond with their children.
“The boys love coming to Newpin,” Matt shares. “They get to play with other kids, do song-time, and read books. It’s a great environment for them.”
The reunification process was carefully managed, with Kate and Matt gradually reintroducing themselves into their children's routines at their foster carer’s home. This approach eased the transition for everyone involved.
“It was the best way to bring them home,” says Kate. “We got support from their carer while we built our confidence back up, and the boys had time to adjust.”
Now, the twins have been home for six months, and Kate and Matt are focused on building a stable future for their family.
They have continued to engage with Newpin and are now working towards longer-term goals, like relaunching Kate’s business and getting Matt back to work. They also hope to be reunified with their older children, who remain in care.
“Everything we’ve been through only makes us more determined and motivated. We will do everything we can to help them make the transition,"
"Newpin is an amazing support for parents who want to make a change. The key is that you’ve got to want to change.”
Kate and Matt have generously shared their journey in the hope they can encourage other families to reach out for help – before they reach a crisis point.
*While this is a true experience, names and images have been changed to protect the family’s privacy and continued wellbeing.
Newpin referrals are only available through the DCP, Uniting Communities offers a range of support services to help families navigate tough times.
Learn more here.
