Walking Alongside Families Through Change
We know that meaningful change rarely happens quickly. Families we support are often navigating complex challenges, including trauma, housing instability, substance use, and family violence. In these contexts, building trust takes time, consistency, and a commitment to staying engaged even when progress feels slow or uncertain.
This family’s story highlights why persistent engagement matters.
When the family was referred to Jannawi, there were serious concerns for the safety and wellbeing of four young children. The family had recently relocated interstate and was experiencing housing instability, limited supports, parental substance use, and exposure to family violence. The mother’s partner was also using substances while caring for the children, increasing risk in the home.
The mother had a significant history of childhood trauma, which affected her ability to consistently engage with services. In the first four months, appointments were frequently missed, contact was limited, and there were few opportunities to work directly with the family. Despite this, Jannawi maintained regular contact attempts through calls, messages, and home visit offers, recognising that trauma can impact engagement.
Staff also observed developmental and emotional concerns in the children, including delayed speech, withdrawal, and parentified behaviours, reinforcing the urgency of support.
A collaborative case planning meeting was eventually held with child protection, rehabilitation services, and the family. In this space, the mother expressed a desire for change and began reflecting on the impact of her circumstances.
Together, barriers were addressed. A weekly appointment time was established around her work schedule, and transport support was provided. From this point, engagement shifted significantly.
The mother began attending consistently, engaging in therapeutic work, participating in rehabilitation, and ceasing substance use. She collaborated with staff to develop safety plans and strengthen her parenting.
Over time, the children showed noticeable improvements in emotional wellbeing and behaviour, reflecting increased stability at home.
This story shows that engagement is not always linear. Families impacted by trauma need flexible, persistent, and compassionate support. Progress often begins with small, consistent steps that build trust over time.
At Jannawi Family Centre, we remain committed to walking alongside families through change—because sometimes, the most powerful intervention is simply not giving up.
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