The Family Partnership Model in practice in New South Wales: Working with families with complex needs to make a difference

Outcomes

The philosophy of FPM and the difference it can make to families is embedded within the measures discussed above, but it is perhaps most powerfully conveyed in the words of this mother, quoted from a letter received by Karitane in October 2011:

“I did struggle some days, but the skills you learn are easily transferable and the ideas stay with you as you strive to keep hold of the positive new energy you have found… The entire experience, though daunting at first, is so well put together – you feel guided and supported, yet free within your own space to mother as you choose to. Techniques are gently and personally tailored to the way you have already been working with your baby so you feel that your values are respected. But every step of the way you are educated and informed as to how you could improve on what you are doing, such that you set about the process of achieving your goals. I also think that the key to the success of the Karitane experience is that it does not misrepresent itself as a ‘quick fix’. You realise that if you want to make changes, you must be the change you hope to see. Karitane teaches you how to do it on your own… As a mother I now have so much more energy to enjoy my baby!! I even try to make friends at the park rather than hiding away insecurely behind the trees with bags under my eyes! You helped me believe in myself again and gave my baby boy a great, strong, refreshed mummy!”

Nick Hopwood, Roger Dunston and Teena Clerke wrote this case study for Governance International on 26 April 2013.