General help and services

Where to start

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Overview

Support is available to help parents, guardians, and whānau make decisions about care of their children after a separation or change in family situation.

Many services are free, but some may have a cost. Speak to the service provider to find out what fees may apply.

In this section

Get legal advice and help Find out where to get legal advice and free legal help. Help at the Family Court Find out what support is available at Family Court and information about who can come to court with you. Organisations to help you Find services that can support you with your wellbeing including mental health help and financial support. Supporting whānau Information to help you support your friends and whānau who are going through a change in their family situation. Supporting children and young people Information to help you support children and young people who are going through a change in their family situation.

You have the right to feel safe

Some (or all) of these options may not be right for you depending on your situation. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 111. You don’t need permission from the person being hurt to call the Police in an emergency.

The Women's Refuge Shielded Site at the bottom of this page provides a private portal that has ideas for you to consider if you plan on leaving a relationship. It also has information about online safety and provides a way to contact Women’s Refuge through a live chat.