PANIC MONTHLY NEWSLETTER | Page 2

Right now you feel helpless.

PANIC is here to help you with a short list of guidelines that will help you

1. Stay calm.

2. Write a letter that starts 'Under the official information act' I would

like all information held about me and my children. Names/Birthdates etc.

Your contact information. Drop this at ANY branch of CYF's. If the police or

doctors etc have been involved or any other agency you can write up

something similar and drop that in to their work places. Ask that photo copy

be taken once it has been date stamped and keep that copy.

They have 21 working days to get the file to you, if they cannot get the file to you within that time you will receive a letter stating why.

3. Record everything. From day one make yourself a paper trail, any decisions made, get them in writing, on the spot. Carry your file with you all the time and write the decisions down, ask the Social Worker to sign your notation. Communicate via email or mail as much as possible and any agreements etc. ask that they be put into writing before you accept them as truth.

4. Always have a support person present.

5. Avoid phone conversations as there is little proof what was discussed (unless recorded)

6. Keep good records, note everything and where possible attach the proof/evidence.

7. Have drug tests done (via GP) Risk assessments and sign up and attend parenting and if needed anger management and/or D&A courses.

First off you are not alone