When someone you care about is sent to prison, you may feel alone, confused, and would like someone to talk to. You might need support regarding the situation you now find yourself in or about the prison system, visiting and keeping in touch.
Your whānau may be struggling with the change in circumstances and are needing extra support.
Pillars Ka Pou Whakahou provides free, confidential, and non-judgemental support for families and children who have whānau serving a sentence.
Our services are voluntary, and anyone can refer to access support.
All enquiries are private and confidential. We are here to help.
Pillars Ka Pou Whakahou services are available if:
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You are the parent, caregiver or taking care of a child with a family member in prison or serving a community-based sentence (You do not have to be in a relationship with the person serving the sentence).
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Your family member or loved one could have previously served a sentence, they do not have to be currently serving time in prison or in the community.
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You live in Tāmaki Makaurau (specifically South Auckland), Ōtautahi (Christchurch). We also have mental health support in Kirikiriroa (Hamilton) and a pathway centre in Waihōpai (Invercargill).
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We accept referrals from Oranga Tamariki, The Ministry of Social Development, Health practitioners, teachers, and any other social work services. You can also self-refer for support.
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If you do not meet the requirements please see the Family Services Directory to access the right support for you and your whānau.
Need Support?
Pillars Ka Pou Whakahou is based in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) and Ōtautahi (Christchurch)
Tāmaki Makaurau: 6A Jack Conway Avenue, Manukau, Auckland 2104
Ōtautahi: 13/303 Blenheim Road, Unit 1b, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch 8041
Office hours
9.00 am - 4.30 pm
Monday to Friday