From the General Manager
This story was first published in Cholmondeley's triannual Care Tiaki Magazine.
Looking out over the beautiful panoramic view of Ōhinetahi/Governors Bay this morning from the whare kai (dining room), I remain convinced that
the centre is situated in the perfect place to provide the highly accessed respite for Canterbury tamariki.
Our constant reminder of the need to ensure its sustainability and availability is highlighted every day when we hear the laughter and voices of the tamariki as they move around the centre.
The team here continue to provide that important one on one care and fun, building and influencing the confidence of our wee people, supporting their abilities to engage with their peers in a pro-social way while accepting each other’s differences.
If there is one thing that separates tamariki and adult’s is their ability to not view difference as a ‘negative difference.' They are our teachers when it comes to inclusivity.
Our outreach, Awhi Team, made up of talented social workers, youth workers, whānau ora navigator, referral coordinator and tamariki & family Psychologist have been busy out in community with home support visits.
These outreach visits help to strengthen the relationships of whānau by the team sharing with parents/caregivers the strategies and methodologies we implement at the centre that enhance the wellbeing of their tamariki.
Most of these strategies are simple and easy to replicate at home while others may need a bit more community support from services, all of which are navigated with the support of the Awhi Team.
As we move through the last remaining six weeks of winter, where the days are shorter and we just want to hunker down and be warm, I want to thank you all for your ongoing support that ensures we are here for the tamariki of Canterbury.
Your ongoing support enables Cholmondeley to continue to provide the high-quality child-focused respite care no matter what season we are in.
If you are wanting to reconsider how you are supporting Cholmondeley then please contact our Fundraising Manager Regan Hines who will happily discuss the various options of support and the needs your donationwould alleviate for our tamariki and their whānau.
Ngā mihi nui
Toni Tinirau
General Manager, Cholmondeley
