Happy New Year to you all and welcome to 2023. I hope you all had an enjoyable Christmas break, were able to put your feet up, (even if only for a few minutes), and spend quality time with loved ones.

It was certainly nice to have some warm weather, although the recent weather events were such a shock, and our

thoughts and prayers are with our members who may have been affected. Please reach out if we can offer any caregiver support at this difficult time – our freephone number is 0800 693 323.

2022 was a busy year for Caring Families Aotearoa, with many of our national events back on the calendar after being cancelled in 2021 due to the pandemic. Having more opportunities to connect with caregivers was lovely, and I’m looking forward to more of that this year.

The New Year is often described as a ‘clean slate’; a chance to reflect and set goals for the next 12 months. Take a few minutes to reflect on what you might like to achieve in 2023 – are there any projects or hobbies you would like to start with your whānau? Perhaps you might like to attend one of our courses to help you on your caregiving journey? You can involve your tamariki too by asking them what they want to achieve this year.

2023 will no doubt come with its own unique ups and downs; remember to reach out to us so we can celebrate with you in the good times and support you through the difficult times – our freephone number is 0800 693 323.

I’m sure you have all been busy preparing for the kids return to school. Give yourselves a big pat on the back for making it through the summer holidays for another year!  I hope the return to school goes smoothly for your tamariki this week and next.

Noho ora mai (stay well),

Linda Surtees 

CEO