Important COVID-19 Notice

Kia ora Aotearoa. As always, and during these exceptional times, the safety and health of the tamariki, rangatahi and whānau in our services remain our number one priority.

Due to the Level 4 COVID-19 New Zealand-wide lockdown, we are re-thinking how we can deliver our Child and Family Services and programmes during this time given the requirement for us all to self-isolate. Our priority is making sure that we provide a means for those most in need to stay in touch with us so that we can support them where they need it.  

We'll have more information for you soon.

Kia Kaha.

Support through separation

Parenting through Separation (PTS) is a free course for parents who are currently separating or have recently separated. It can also help grandparents and other family members/whānau who have responsibilities around a child's care.

A PTS course is a good first step for carers who want to do the best for their children during a difficult time.

It focuses on:

  • understanding how separation affects children and how to talk to them about it
  • why it's important to keep children away from conflict and how to do this
  • how to discuss child care arrangements amicably
  • making a plan for ongoing parenting and care.

Already know what you're looking for? Jump to the latest schedule

 

Course locations

Each year, we run 250 courses — helping around 1,600 people support children through a time of change. Each course runs for a total of 4 hours.

We currently offer classes in

  • Auckland
  • Waikato
  • Gisborne
  • Palmerston North
  • Whanganui
  • Marlborough
  • Blenheim
  • Nelson
  • Tasman
  • Christchurch
  • Invercargill
  • Gore

If we don't offer classes in your region, check the Ministry of Justice website for a provider close to you.

 

Cost

All PTS courses are free. The Ministry of Justice funds them for any legal guardian supporting a child through parental separation.

 

Registering

If you'd like to attend one of our classes, call your local office. All office contact numbers are listed in the course schedule beside their class listings.

 

Class schedule

Download the latest schedule (PDF, 360KB)

 

 

Who to contact

If you have questions about our PTS courses, call us your local Barnardos office (as per the course schedule) or send us a message.