Tough times and good times

By: Anonymous male - 17 years

I have been in care for about 9 or 10 years. I am in care because my parents were unable to care for me. Department of Community Services (DoCS) have had to step up and be like a parent and make sure that I have similar opportunities to other kids.

One thing I learned in my life is that there are obstacles in the way and things will never be perfect. Some of the obstacles that I have had to deal with are fights between my family, nine different caseworkers and twelve different carers. I have found this difficult, as I have had to meet new people and move to new places. My latest caseworker has been with me for about 7 years. I have found it really good to have one consistent person in my life.

I have over the last few years really got my life in order through playing sport like indoor soccer and Aussie Rules Football. I have done my year 10 through TAFE. I am in the middle of looking for a permanent job I am picking up work through people here and there. It would be good to have a permanent full time job.

My caseworker and I decided that it would be best for me to live by myself instead of with foster carers who had their own kids. I have been living by myself for the last year and a half I think is a good achievement for anyone. Some of the ways that DoCS has helped me live by myself are:

• Buy some things for my house like a fridge, television, washing machine, beds, cutlery and big and little plates.
• Organise my driving lessons
• Arrange my dental needs and other health things

Finally I would like to say that I have had some tough times and some good times. My life has been different to some others as I have been in care. With the help of my friends, my caseworker and good decisions that I have made my life is turning out pretty good.