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Relationships

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Relationships are important to young people.

Here are some stories young people have told us about the important people in their lives.

The stories were entries to a competition in 2008.

I thought I would have trouble finding a job – I had no formal qualifications, no work experience and I have a

physical disability... Then I went for a job as a peer support worker at a new youth service that was opening up.

During the interview process I chatted with the manager of the service, Simone Piatti. She was

genuinely interested in what I had to say and my lack of qualifications and work experience didn’t seem

to be important. Even so I was surprised when I got the job and was worried I might lose it.

I quickly found that working with Simone was wonderful.

Regan Murphy (12)

My Dad is important to me because he taught me so much, looked after me and also always tells me to keep trying.

You probably haven’t heard of my Dad or even know him but I know him and he is my amazing, awesome,

great role model!

People who have changed me and my son’s life are the staff and students at the Hutt Valley Teen Parent Unit.

They offer teen parents the chance to regain their education with the support of knowing that the staff and

students are right there helping and guiding you along. They offer support throughout your pregnancy and

help you with parenting skills andmost importantly help you regain your education; giving you the chance to

live a better life and give your child the best outcome in their life ahead.

The best part of school which far outshone the worst parts was my teacher, Mr Rowsell.

He was the most amazing, talented and patient person ever.

He recognized potential in every child and challenged us to shoot for the moon.

He knew that even if we missed, we would still land among the stars.

Being gay was a really difficult challenge for me as a teenager. My boyfriend changed the way I felt about myself.

Because of this relationship I have grown in self esteem in a big way.

I have the confidence to speak up, and socialise with people in a natural way.

Even my health has improved in a drastic way...