June 2026 Upper South Caregiver News

Kia ora koutou e te whānau,  

I have recently returned from a trip around the region, and the power of connection has been very evident to me. I am heartened by the swapping of phone numbers and your willingness to offer support to fellow caregivers. We have had some new faces joining us in the support groups and I know they have felt welcomed and supported. If anyone is interested in being a support group liaison for Nelson or Greymouth, please contact me for further information.

I’m pleased to report that my newfound enthusiasm for re-establishing my vege garden is paying dividends. This is partly due to the fuel crisis that had me thinking how best to save some extra dollars, and also due to some colleagues planting for a Matariki harvest.

Gardening in Winter is a bit slow, but very satisfying, with some quick result crops like bok choy and lettuce. I’m also trying very hard to practice what I preach and find some achievable ways to improve my self-care. I’m lucky to have the airport perimeter walkway outside my front door so I am prioritising an hour to get this poor old body moving, its been really really hard going but I am persevering and the aches and stiffness are getting bearable.   

I look forward to seeing you all again soon around the support groups, but if you need support then just give me a call. Stay warm, make sure your smoke alarm batteries are new for winter and look out for some winter ideas on our private Facebook page. 

 Ngā mihi Denise

Training

Please let me know if you need any support or help getting access to our online self-directed trainings. There are some great resources that can support us in our therapeutic parenting approach. 

I am excited about our latest training as I know the topics covered are often topics that caregivers wish they’d known about in the beginning! Read below to find out more about Caregiving 101. 

Caregiving 101
“I wish I’d known this in the beginning!” 

We’ve heard this statement a lot from caregivers over the years – and we’re delighted to say that our considered response – the development of new training that introduces the tools, techniques and resources to navigate a caregiving journey – is now complete. 

Caregiving 101 is open for registration for the first time this month, alongside our online suite of foundational level training courses. There are two versions, one for Formal caregivers and one for Informal caregivers. Just like most of our training, each course will take about one hour to complete.  

For ease of definition, the Formal course is for statutory caregivers (inside the state care system), who receive a board payment for a child in their care. The Informal course is for non-statutory caregivers (outside the state care system) who receive the Unsupported Child Benefit, the Orphan’s Benefit, or do not receive a board payment.  

Both courses have tools, resources and advice to create a positive and nurturing environment for the tamariki and rangatahi in your care. They offer valuable insights into your unique role and responsibilities, and guidance to understand the challenges and rewards of caregiving.  

Register before 5pm on Monday 8 June and you’ll receive access to begin your training on Tuesday 9 June.  

Events

If you’d like to see an event in your area, I’d love to hear your ideas. You can contact me by email to uppersouth@caringfamilies.org.nz.

Support

Nelson Coffee Group
Date: Monday 8 June (no training)
Time: 10.00am
Location: Tahunanui Community Hub, 55 Muritai Street, Nelson
Please RSVP to Denise 0273693333 via text

Blenheim Coffee Catch up
Date: Friday 26 June
Time: 10am
Location: Runway Café, 760 Middle Renwick Road,
RSVP to Denise 0273693333 via txt

Online support
Please join our private Facebook group if you haven’t already.

If you need someone to talk to feel free to connect with me, your Regional Coordinator; M: 027 369 3333 | E: uppersouth@caringfamilies.org.nz. Or you can call our national office on 0800 693 323.

My hours of work are 8.30am – 4.30pm Monday through to Thursday.

Ngā mihi nui,
Denise