Coronavirus
The COVID-19 pandemic has been tough globally. Single parents and caregivers have faced specific challenges due to juggling working from home as well as home-schooling children, for those who are experiencing poverty, those who are isolated with a lack of family and social support. It is not easy even during ‘normal’ times to be parenting as a single person and a pandemic presents even more challenge.
On these pages, we have put some information together that we hope can help. It is important to follow the latest government guidelines and Protection Framework information for COVID-19.
All Birthright services are following the government guidelines to keep our clients and our staff safe.
Donations
If you would like to help out a family facing difficulties during these uncertain times, please make a donation.
Other helpful links
Find services for when you need help, support, advice or information about COVID-19
Looking after your mental wellbeing and the wellbeing of young people under COVID-19
Search for local Rapid Antigen Testing sites
Working, parenting and lockdown
Te Rōpū Whakakaupapa Urutā - COVID-19 advice for Maori
Benefits
Work and Income service centres are open for clients with appointments. You are allowed to bring whānau, your kids, or a support person if you need to. To make an appointment, call 0800 559 009, or apply through the Work and Income website.
They are encouraging clients to contact them by phone or online via MyMSD.
Work and Income has removed the stand-down period following a successful application, so that you can begin to receive payments immediately. For more information, you can read Work and Income’s response to COVID-19 or learn more about their help for individuals.
Money, rent, and food
If you can’t pay for food
If you don’t have enough food, you may be able to get help from a food bank.
If you can’t pay for rent
Work and Income may be able to help pay for living expenses. Landlords cannot increase rent until 26 September 2020. Note that after 12 August 2020, rent cannot be increased for 12 months following the beginning of a new tenancy or the last rent increase. Inland Revenue also has information about COVID-19 support for families.
Healthcare
Call your doctor or Healthline on 0800 358 5453 for advice about getting tested. In case of an emergency, dial 111.
If you are pregnant
The Ministry of Health provides COVID-19 advice for pregnant women. The New Zealand College of Midwives has put together further information and resources for women giving birth during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Looking after your mental health
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Dr Michelle Dickson and PM Jacinda Ardern chat about the coronavirus in a new video, How to explain coronavirus to kids.
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The Ministry of Health has also issued COVID-19 advice and information specific to disabled people and for the deaf community.
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The Ministry of Health has issued advice around looking after your mental wellbeing and the wellbeing of young people under COVID-19, which can be accessed through their official website. The New Zealand’s Mental Health Foundation also has plenty of wellbeing tips available to help families get through.
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If you are experiencing domestic violence or abuse in your home, please contact one of the organisations listed on this section of our website (LINK to abuse & violence page). Call 111 in an emergency, if it is unsafe for you to speak then press 55 to contact police for help.
Coronavirus info for single parents FAQs
- Can my child travel between homes?
Yes, the government has said that children can travel between parents. It’s important to talk to your child’s other parents about your individual circumstances.
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Can my child go to school?
Yes, primary and intermediate schools remain open at all Traffic Light settings. Your local school should provide distance learning options if your child needs to stay home (e.g. if people in the household are self-isolating).
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What happens if I can’t get to work?
If you are not able to return to work or continue working from home, you need to discuss options with your employer. It may be that you can receive special paid leave, but you both must agree. Consider using a combination of annual holidays or other sick leave to come to an agreement that is fair.
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Will I still get my benefits?
Yes, you are still entitled to benefits. Work & Income are encouraging clients to contact them by phone on 0800 559 009 or online for help before arranging to meet in-person.
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What happens if I’m struggling to make ends meet?
Local food banks and community groups may be able to help with food. For more information, contact the Parent Helpline for support on 0800 568 856.
Support
The Ministry of Health has issued specific advice for people at higher risk of contracting COVID-19. Keep yourself and loved ones safe and healthy by reducing the spread of the virus. Consider making alternate arrangements with your employer if you feel unsafe in your workplace. Pregnant women in their third trimester should consider alternate working arrangements to keep themselves and their baby safe.
Donations
If you would like to help out a family facing difficulties during these uncertain times, please make a donation.
Other helpful links
Find services for when you need help, support, advice or information about COVID-19
Looking after your mental wellbeing and the wellbeing of young people under COVID-19