Tēnā koutou everyone,
Things will hopefully start feeling less wintery soon – but while we’re indoors you can keep warm at one of our upcoming Trainings…
I’m excited to be delivering newly developed material on “Identity & Belonging” and “Legal Information” – the new Identity & Belonging incorporates e-learning. To find out more about our Training opportunities, click the button below:
Nicole McLean
Canterbury RC
03 281 7495 or 027 501 0392
Recently, the Regional Coordinator team and I met in Wellington. In one of our workshops, we spent some time reflecting on the question “Who am I/Ko wai au?”
This can be easily overlooked when faced with the busy-ness of life, but it’s valuable to ask ourselves this and reconnect with where we have come from, where we are now, what we value and what drives us. This also benefits our children and young people as we model self-reflection. It doesn’t have to be dramatic – something simple like saying “I wonder why we always do ____ this way?” It might prompt some discussion about why we do what we do and how that links to our identity.
“Mai i te kōpae ki te urupa, tātou ako tonu ai / From the cradle to the grave we are forever learning.”
Do you have some words of encouragement, information of interest, or a hilarious ‘real-life’ moment (anonymity of tamariki essential) to share in our next Snippets? Email to nicolem@caringfamlies.org.nz by 13 August.
Support Groups
An update from one of our whānau of carers:
Hi, Greg here from Christchurch Dads Group. Just had a men’s group dinner on the 15th July with some of the foster dads from Canterbury. We’ve decided in three months time to have another get together over tenpin bowling. Working out a date before we leave the meeting seems to work better than just trying to float an idea later on so we’ve got a few things set up for the summer coming up. It seems to go well and the guys really did enjoy having a chat about their lives and families. You find out a lot about the family from the guys’ point of view and it’s really interesting. If you have an opportunity to come along and give it a try, you’ll be amazed! Certainly, most of the guys in our group find it helpful and something that’s just for them and what they do. Cheers from Greg.
Thanks Greg for arranging something for the Dads – your enthusiasm and encouragement are much appreciated! – Nicole
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.
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 RC Nicole to find out more: 027 501 0392.
Eastside Whānau & Foster Care Support Group
Find them on Facebook for more information or contact your RC, Nicole, 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:
Kia kaha, kia hauora, me kia atawhai
(Be strong, be healthy and be kind)
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