Erin navigates pregnancy and independence in care

November 2, 2026

Erin entered an Intensive Therapeutic Care (ITC) placement with CatholicCare at age 12, after spending much of her childhood moving between foster carers. “She was one of the most challenging clients we’ve supported, due to her complex trauma history and significant diagnoses,” recalls ITC House Supervisor Nathan. Beneath her resistance, however, was a young person striving to make sense of a world that had rarely felt stable or safe.

“Erin is witty  and incredibly resourceful,” Nathan adds. “There’s a unique charm about her that really stands out,” says Youth Worker Chloe.

At 15, Erin’s life became more complex when she fell pregnant. Throughout this time, CatholicCare stood by her side – attending appointments, answering her questions and advocating fiercely to ensure her wishes for her baby were both heard and respected.

Although Erin was ultimately unable to parent her child, she was clear about one important wish – she wanted her baby to stay within her family. CatholicCare worked closely with the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) and Erin’s extended family to make this possible.

“Erin was very firm about wanting her baby placed with one of her aunties,” Chloe explains. “We made sure that happened and worked hard to maintain Erin’s connection with her child through regular family visits.”

Supporting Erin during this period meant adapting to her needs and working closely with her to facilitate regular visits with her baby. CatholicCare adjusted routines and arrangements to ensure she could maintain that connection as much as possible.

As Erin approached 18, the team focused on the task of transitioning her out of care and into independent living.

“When I joined CatholicCare 18 months ago, Erin was still facing many challenges, especially with daily living skills,” Nathan reflects. “But over the last six months, she has surprised us all with how much she has grown and developed her independence.”

What some initially perceived as stubbornness was really Erin’s determination to do things her own way. With the right support, she proved just how capable she truly is.

With ongoing support and advocacy, Erin has transitioned into a semi-independent Supported Independent Living (SIL) placement through the NDIS. She now lives in a small granny flat attached to a group home, where she continues to build her independence with regular assistance. She has demonstrated remarkable maturity and strength.