Family breakdown

If you're under 19 and have had a family breakdown, we may be able to help.

Who can get help

If you're under 19 and can't live with your parents or guardians, we may be able to help. You may be in one of these situations:

  • you've left the care of Oranga Tamariki - Ministry for Children, or an agency approved by Oranga Tamariki - Ministry for Children, eg, Iwi Social Services or Cultural Social Services
  • your relationship with your parents or guardians has broken down and they're not prepared to financially support you
  • your parents or guardians can't support you financially, eg:
    • they've gone to prison
    • they've moved overseas
    • they're in hospital long term
    • they've died.

What you can get

If you're under 16, your guardian should talk to us about what help is available.

They can call us on 0800 559 009

If you're 16 or 17 and your relationship with your parents or guardians has broken down and they can't support you, you may be able to get a Youth Payment.

Youth Payment

If you're a 16-19 year old parent, you may be able to get a Young Parent Payment.

Young Parent Payment

If you get Youth Payment or Young Parent Payment, a Youth Service provider will work with you to:

  • get the correct financial support
  • ensure you're in either education training or work-based learning
  • manage your money well, including helping you with budgeting
  • make sure you are living somewhere reasonable and affordable
  • talk about other services you might need.
Youth Service

If you're 18 years or older, we may be able to help in a number of ways.

 
Check what you might get

Use "Check what you might get" to find out what help you could qualify for.

Call us if you're unsure of what you can get and you want to discuss your situation.