Help Max remain in a safe environment

Max (not his real name and above photo a stock image) is a NZ young teen in a tough situation, just wanting to live with his mum. Max’s parents divorced a few years ago and he has been in a joint custody situation since then. However, it has been increasingly difficult for Max while staying at his dad’s due to multiple factors. His mental health, self-esteem and performance and behaviour at school have been in fast decline in recent months, causing Max to experience frequent panic attacks, and anxiety induced ticks. Seeing her son in such distress, Max’s mum knew she had no other option than to apply to the Family Court, asking for Max’s wishes to be heard, and for him to live in her full time care.

Mum lives on a single income. She is currently in $20,000+ debt for legal fees for the process of bringing Max into her full-time care. The court order is not yet finalised and this cost is likely to increase. She also has her own health concerns and is currently self funding a diabetes medical device, costing on average $100 per week. There is no Pharmac funding for this.