When 13 year-old Alice* first came to live in one of our NSW Intensive Therapeutic Care homes, her extreme and often violent behaviour was threatening to the other young people and staff.
A case review allowed for a rich and informed discussion to take place between government departments and MacKillop to discuss how to best care for her. During the review both Alice and her father expressed a clear desire to live together, so we set about preparing an appropriate transition plan.
With Alice’s father living 300 kms away and COVID-19 restrictions in place, facilitating the transition was difficult. During a home visit, staff learned that the family lived in extreme poverty, without a functioning toilet or stove. This explained many of Alice’s troubling behaviours. MacKillop worked in collaboration with the Department of Housing to get the house to a hygienic and acceptable living condition. By involving Alice in this process her attitude shifted rapidly and her behaviour improved.
“Alice actively worked to control her behaviour and started to talk, make her own choices and plan for her future,” recalls Grace Breitkreutz, District Manager. “She even applied for a job on her own.” Alice has now been successfully reunited with her father, has secured a part-time job and is working towards re-entering school.
“Despite living in poverty, Alice’s father always wanted the best for his children,” reflects Julijana Vranic, Therapeutic Specialist. "He’s always fought for his daughters and you can see how that has given Alice hope."
*Name changed and stock image used to protect privacy