Riley* was seven years old when he came to live in a MacKillop residential care home. He was removed from his mother's care as she was unable to look after him. Riley had experienced severe trauma and faced many challenges when he first came to MacKillop. He was unable to self-regulate or keep himself safe for longer than a few minutes at a time.
After four months in the home, Riley's aunt and uncle were found and opened their doors to him. He has been with them ever since.
When Riley came to live with Kelly* and Doug*, they knew he had a long path of healing ahead of him. Despite having four children themselves, including two with a disability, they care for him like one of their own. Kelly and Doug have given Riley a stable family environment where he is shown love and made to feel safe.
Almost four years later, it's clear that healing journey is very much underway. Kerry Heaven, Riley's Case Manager at MacKillop, reflects on the incredible journey Riley has taken in their care.
Riley has faced many challenges in his life, more than any of us could ever imagine. He is now a confident and happy young person, is incredibly kind, generous, and a joy to be around.
Kerry notes how Riley's behaviour was erratic when he first came to MacKillop and reflected the unstable environment he had come from. "Riley was out of control and would run away, or jump out of the car," she says.
Riley was supported with play therapists who until recently, he was seeing weekly. Kerry remarks that Riley’s progress has been so remarkable, he doesn't need to see them anymore.
Riley's engagement with education has also transformed. From being completely disengaged, he is now attending school five days a week.
One of Riley's biggest achievements last year was to attend a school camp - something he had longed to do for years. It took great courage to spend time away from the family who have shown him love, care and safety. Riley successfully spent two nights away and was able to attend a second therapeutic camp later in the year as well.
"Regardless of the challenges he has faced, Riley shows resilience and can now communicate how he is feeling. He has learnt self-regulation and social skills, how to safely engage in the community and has built stronger relationships with his mother, sister, and kinship carers," says Kerry.
The year ahead is looking very positive for Riley. He's just joined a fishing group that supports vulnerable and disadvantaged children. He is keen to enrol in swimming lessons and art therapy. As he recovers from his trauma with safety and nurture, Riley is moving from strength to strength.
*Name changed and model image used to protect privacy.