A little bit about me::
I am employed by Te Whatu Ora, Mid North Team to service a Corrections contract to provide Aftercare support to graduates of intensive programmes completed in prison. I then continue to support these tangata whaiora in Te Tai Tokerau community after their release from prison. Many of these whaiora have been victims of violence, abuse and neglect as children and have become stuck in addiction for decades. Addressing the root cause of their substance abuse generally entails addressing the trauma they have experienced in order to heal. Others have un-diagnosed conditions that have created struggles and stress for them that has led to addiction. Linking them with the correct supports is crucial to supporting positive change for their future.