Our stories

Our Queensland team has been proudly standing beside a mum on one of the hardest journeys a parent can face, reuniting with her child.

Mum Megan* was separated from her young son when she was taken into custody. The distance and uncertainty took a heavy toll on them both, but Megan refused to give up. She reached out to SHINE for Kids and other services, determined to do everything in her power to bring her son back into her care.

“I could clearly see how determined she was, as well as the emotional toll that prolonged separation from her child had taken on her,” shared the SHINE for Kids team.

One of the ways Megan showed her commitment was by completing our evidence-based parenting program Bringing Up Great Kids. This structured course helps parents build skills, reflect on their experiences, and strengthen their connection with their children. Finishing it showed her dedication to her child.

When the time came for the child safety panel to review her case, her completion of the program was taken into consideration. Then came the moment everyone had been hoping for when the panel ruled that her son could return to her.

When Megan heard the decision, she was overwhelmed with relief, and so was our team.

“When the decision finally came through, I felt relieved and grateful that we were able to support her throughout the process.”

Seeing Megan’s courage, effort, and love lead to a happy ending for mother and son has been truly wonderful.

Their reunion is a powerful reminder of why this work matters.

*Names and images changed to protect participant privacy.