Kia ora koutou,
This has been a challenging month for our region. I’m feeling very fortunate that my house and whānau are okay, but I know that is not the case for many of you, and I’m thinking of you all. Disasters like this always bring out the true spirit of kiwis; we come together and support one another when we need it most. A friend of mine has experienced total devastation, and we’re doing what we can by letting them stay in our rental property. It feels good to be able to help the community during these times, no matter how small.
James Uri
East Coast Regional Coordinator
027 204 6908
As a caregiver myself, I know that an event like this can be a trigger for our tamariki with trauma. I’ve noticed a shift in my children’s behaviour, and I’ve spoken to caregivers who have noticed the impact on their kids’ behaviour too. My advice to you would be to stay as close as you can to your tamariki and support them with what they feel and need. Remember to look after yourself too, reach out if you need extra support.
SUPPORT
For the next wee while I am making myself available Monday to Friday – I’m only a phone call away if you need to talk. You can reach me on 0272046908. It’s important to me that I’m here to support you through this tough time. We’re journeying this together.
Another great place to get support is our private closed Facebook group. This group is only open to our caregiver members, so you have the freedom to air your thoughts without judgement. Everyone in the group gets what you’re going through. Click below to join.
TRAINING & LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
The training, ‘Helping Children Feel Safe’, planned for Wednesday 15th March in Gisborne has been cancelled due to the cyclone.
We still have a number of great online training options coming up in March, including:
- Making Changes – Stability in Hard Times
- Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
- Ako Ngātahi – Helping your child with relationships
- Difficult Behaviours – Managing confrontation and intimidating interactions
Register for any of them by clicking the link below.
EVENTS
Unfortunately, for now, the two events I had planned in Gisborne and Hawkes Bay for Foster Care Awareness Week will not be going ahead. The well-being of you and your whānau is a priority, and I want to give people time to get back on their feet. Do keep a look out though, as I hope to get these events back up and running as soon as it’s possible.
Noho Marino, Noho Hono / Stay Calm, Stay Connected
James