Kia ora team!
This year is disappearing quicker than a packet of Tim Tams…
We had some robust kōrero (conversation) at the Understanding National Care Standards Training in Christchurch last month. There were three members of the Oranga Tamariki Care Team in attendance, and they gave some valuable insight into the design and intent of the National Care Standards. I think it was valuable also for them to hear caregiver feedback!
There are still some trainings available in September which I hope some of you may find helpful and useful in your caregiving journey. Click the button below to register!
Nicole McLean
Canterbury RC
03 281 7495 or 027 501 0392
We will be taking every precaution with cleaning surfaces etc but please do feel comfortable about wearing a mask and gloves if you wish.
We recently received statistics from Oranga Tamariki regarding numbers of ‘All About Me Plans’ and ‘Caregiver Support Plans’ being completed. If you and your tamariki (children) have not yet co-created these with Oranga Tamariki, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your Caregiver Social Worker or your child’s Social Worker to enquire! To clarify – Social Workers collaborate with tamariki and caregivers to create the ‘All About Me Plan’. After this, the Caregiver Social Worker collaborates with you, the caregiver, to create a practical and achievable ‘Caregiver Support Plan’ based around the ‘All About Me Plan’.
Speaking of all about me… you will have received an email regarding my decision to move on from my role as Regional Coordinator. As someone who doesn’t like making tough decisions, I am still coming to terms with my feelings around this. In saying that, I have received so much support from the staff at Caring Families Aotearoa, friends and fellow caregivers, who understand the need to make choices around putting on our own ‘oxygen masks’ in order to be available as caregivers, mums, dads, aunties, uncles and grandparents. I know I will still see many of you at Support Groups and events, so it’s not goodbye – it’s see you later!
This month we take a day out to celebrate our Dads (Pāpā).
I would like to pay homage to all our Foster Dads. These are the men, who to be fair, don’t always sign up for the job. They get the role by default through some epiphany that befalls their lovely wives or partners. And bless their hearts: not only do they agree to become Foster Dads, but they do an amazing job at it! Foster Dads: You role model the patience, kindness and caring that real men share. So, Foster Dads … Thank you! You are truly awesome!
Support Groups
Christchurch West Coffee Group
A note from Bonny: Christchurch West Coffee Group would love to have you join us on the first Tuesday of every month from 10am to 12pm at 64a Amyes Road, Hornby, for fellowship, fun and a shared listening ear.
We have introduced a 20 minute training component to the morning each month. If there is anything in particular that you would like covered, please let us know.
For more information contact Bonny on 021 178 2552 or bonbazstephens@gmail.com
“When you come to the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on.”
Support is only a phone call away!
Have questions? Others may have the answers.
Rangiora
Oranga Tamariki host a Support Group once a month for Oranga Tamariki caregivers in North Canterbury. Please contact your Caregiver Social Worker to find out more.
Eastside Whānau & Foster Care Support Group
Find them on Facebook for more information.
Remember: Caregivers are welcome to set up support groups – these might be based on child age ranges, specific needs, caregiver types (permanent/emergency/transitional) location or more!
To register a Support Group click the button below:
To find a Support Group in your area click the button below:
“Mo tatau mo ka uri a muri ake nei” / “For us and our children after us”
Ngāi tahu whakatauki,
Nicole McLean
Have you joined our closed Facebook Group?
As a member of Caring Families Aotearoa you have exclusive access to our CLOSED Facebook groups. These are only open to caregivers that are members of Caring Families Aotearoa. This allows our members a platform to seek support, information and resources.
Click the link below to join!
Canterbury Support Closed Facebook Group