Billboard
Northern Region June 2008
Billboard Contents
Pg 3 Community Development
Pg 4 Lifestyles
Pg 7 CCS Disability Action News
Pg 11 Community Opportunities
Pg 13 Contacts, events and resources
The New Zealand Disability Strategy
The following are the 15 objectives of the New Zealand Disability Strategy. The articles and infor-
mation we feature in Billboard focus on particular objectives of the Strategy in each issue and are
featured at the bottom of each article.
Objectives:
1. Encourage and educate for a non-disabling society
2. Ensure rights for disabled people
3. Provide the best education for disabled people
4. Provide opportunities in employment and economic development for disabled
people
5. Foster leadership by disabled people
6. Foster an aware and responsive public service
7. Create long-term support systems centred on the individual
8. Support quality living in the community for disabled people
9. Support lifestyle choices, recreation and culture for disabled people
10. Collect and use relevant information about disabled people and disability issues
11. Promote participation of disabled Maori
12. Promote participation of disabled pacific peoples
13. Enable disabled children and youth to lead full and active lives
14. Promote participation of disabled women in order to improve their quality of life
15. Value families, whanau and people providing ongoing support
MAKING A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE WHAKANUI ORANGA
Editorial
Susan Foster, Communications Advisor
We would like you to give this copy of Billboard away. Well, read it first! But then pass it on to
family, friends or neighbours – and ask them to pass it on. By doing this, you’ll help raise
awareness of the work CCS Disability Action does and of the issues that face people with disability
in our society. The more people understand these issues, the more powerful we can be in the
work we do.
Everything we do is aimed at supporting people to make their own choices and live the lives they
want to live, in the community of their choice. This might seem simple – but as you will know, it
can provide challenges for family/whanau when one member has a disability.
CCS Disability Action Awareness week runs from 30 June – 6 July this year. It focuses on the
importance of early support for families with a child with disability. This issue of Billboard therefore
focuses on the challenges – and successes – of supporting children, and their families, from a
very early age.
CCS Disability Action started with a specific focus on children (see p7). While our work now
extends beyond that to include support of all kinds throughout life, we continue to place a strong
focus on early support, as experience and research tell us that this is where the most powerful and
affirming differences can be made for the child and their family.
So please, enjoy this issue of Billboard and then pass it on, so we can continue to ensure that our
communities include all people.
How to Contact CCS Disability Action
FREEPHONE 0800 227 2255
www.northern.ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz
Regional Office, Albany - phone 09 414 9780 fax 09 414 9781
Whangarei Office - phone 09 437 1899 fax 09 437 0209
Royal Oak Office - phone 09 625 9378 fax 09 625 6177
South Auckland Office - phone 09 296 4802 fax 09 298 2199
Email us at auckland@ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz or northland@ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz
Billboard Editor: Susan Foster
Phone 09 625 1795 or email: susan.foster@ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz
Contributions: We welcome contributions, comments and letters to the editor. We would like to
thank all contributors to this edition. Deadline for next issue: 31 July 2008.
The opinions expressed in Billboard are not necessarily those of CCS Disability Action Northern
Region.
If you would prefer an electronic version of our newsletter please contact the editor.
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Community Development
Early support pilot project in the north
By Rachel Snook, Community Support Co-ordinator, CCS Disability Action
In early 2006 I became involved in an Early Support Pilot Project in Northland. Key agencies in the
community, including Ministry of Health, Needs Assessment Service Coordination, Group Special
Education, IDEA services and CCS Disability Action identified that whanau/families required
intensive supports when their young children are born or diagnosed with a significant disability.
Holistic supports for the whole family would support them to create a vision for their future to have
an ordinary life in their local community.
CCS Disability Action was contracted by NASC to provide intensive case management for each
family as directed by NASC. Five families were identified and each of the families agreed to be
involved in the Early Support Pilot Project for one year. The contract from NASC enabled me to
support each of these families for about four hours per week.
My role was called the “Navigator” and involved providing intensive case management support for
families to set goals and aspirations for their future. Each family created a personal plan that
reflected their goals and I coordinated all the agencies who were involved in their lives to help
meet these aspirations. For most families the number of agencies involved was large and included
doctors, physiotherapists, occupational therapists speech and language therapists, social workers,
special education teachers, Te Kohanga Reo, kindergarten, WINZ, HNZ, ACC to name a few.
I was in an extremely privileged role as I was able to meet the families on a weekly basis and
create a solid, open and trusting relationship. I was able to ensure that they had all the information
and resources that they required to make informed decisions about their future.
Each family had different goals and aspirations and it was special to watch them achieve these as
the year progressed.
Some examples of these wonderful achievements are:
A dream to have a family holiday overseas together. This was achieved in November 2006.
Dreams to have their young son attend the local Te Kohunga Reo regularly as did their
older two children. This was achieved in April 2007.
A dream to have their toddler attend day care alongside his peers so mum could return to
part time work. This was achieved in March 2007.
A goal of purchasing an accessible vehicle to become independent in the local community
and attend their child’s appointments and planning meetings. This was achieved in
February 2006 via a successful funding application.
By providing the whanau with support they were able to remain solid together as a family unit.
Coordinating all the agencies involved in the whanau’s lives minimised the stress that
parents/caregivers can experience when trying to arrange meetings, appointments and obtain
information from several different agencies. The information, ongoing mentoring and support from
all agencies working together enabled whanau to call upon their natural supports and any other
chosen support in times where they needed to have a break.
As the families grew in confidence they were able to advocate for themselves in situations where
they needed extra support for their children and whanau.
Through the success of this pilot project the importance of early support for all families has been
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recognised by the agencies involved. CCS Disability Action continues to provide intensive case
management to new families via NASC contracts.
It has been a wonderful experience to be involved in such a valuable project. To see these families
grow strong and begin to reach their goals and aspirations has been truly inspirational. I am
humbled at the aroha and wairua that these parents/caregivers have shown to ensure the rights of
the children are met at all times to create their own ordinary lives. To all the whanau/families
involved I thank you for allowing me to be a part of your lives and walk beside you in your vision
for your future together.
New Zealand Disability Strategy Objective 15:
Value families, whanau and people providing ongoing support
Lifestyles
Joining the mainstream
Parents of children with a disability sometimes face a dilemma when deciding on the best option
for their child’s early learning. CCS Disability Action’s Early Intervention Team work with families
and children to ensure successful inclusion in early childhood centres. Jenni Lyons, one of CCS
Disability Action’s early intervention team, says it is important that the early childhood centre
actively includes the child as they would any other child, supporting them to have the same
opportunities as their peers. She notes that just because a child with a disability attends a centre
does not necessarily mean they are successfully included.
We highlight two early childhood centres that have successfully supported the attendance of
children with disabilities.
Pauline Pertab, who manages Portland House Monetessori Pre-School in Ellerslie, says the
journey into the centre for the family and child is always carefully planned.
“We make sure that the family, like all others, receives an introduction and information that leads
to a clear expectation that their child will share the enthusiasm, and the joy of learning of all others
in the centre. We introduce the family to the school culture, provide them with information that will
help their child to settle, discuss how we will work together, and how we will ensure their child is
happy.”
She notes that sometimes when a child has a disability, that becomes the focus, rather than the
child. Portland House strives to ensure this is not the case.
“A mainstream setting can be excellent for a child,” she adds, “depending on the child’s needs and
whether they are fully met – physically, mentally, environmentally and emotionally. If all the needs
are met and the staff and parents are working together as a team, then the best outcomes can be
expected.
“We talk to parents about ways to help children be cooperative and if necessary how to modify
their behaviour. Behaviour defines our acceptance in society. It is important for all children to have
clear boundaries and expectations, and it is imperative for children with extra learning and
developmental needs to have clarity and consistency of expectations.”
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She notes that the paraprofessional support worker in the centre needs to be someone who is
objective, warm but clear and firm and works as a team player, following the plans developed with
the family and the early childhood centre. The paraprofessional also needs to recognise when and
how to allow the child to be independent.
“Having an adult always beside a child prevents normal peer interaction and spontaneity of the
children. Knowing when to help and when to hold back is an important skill – the role of the
support worker in my centre is as part of the team dynamics of the whole class.”
“Children benefit from associating with other children in the right setting. I believe that children with
extra learning needs are part of the group and will continue as such given the right opportunities.”
Small Miracles is an early childhood centre in St Heliers which sees numerous benefits in having
children with disabilities as an integral part of the centre. For Small Miracles the definition of
inclusion is to ensure that all children participate in the same activities and group mat time and are
given the same opportunities. The head teacher and her staff believe there is a real benefit to
children interacting with others who are different, as it helps to develop respect and understanding
of difference.
The centre also encourages independence in the child by encouraging them, where possible, to
have time at the centre without a support worker. This promotes opportunities for the child to make
their own discoveries and explore with centre staff, just as the other children do.
Susan Piaggi, head teacher at Small Miracles, says they plan and implement activities and
materials that are beneficial not only for the individual child but for everybody. This can include, for
example, incorporating sign language and indicating its value in a mainstream setting or selecting
activities that allow success for all children.
Just as at Portland House, staff liaise closely with the child’s support worker, and ensure he or she
is included as part of the team. Inclusion of the family is also key, says Susan.
“Parents need to feel comfortable and supported by centre staff developing a responsive and
reciprocal relationship, and we encourage feedback and develop strong family links.”
Max Hannah has been attending Small Miracles since the beginning of the year.
Max’s mother highlights key actions to ensure successful inclusion in a mainstream early
childhood centre:
being welcomed
being accepted for who you are
a genuine interest in getting to know the child’s personality
a genuine desire by the centre to understand the disability
maintaining a sense of humour
viewing unusual behaviour with acceptance and not negativity
making allowances for behaviour but providing gentle guidance allowing the child to take a
leading role at mat time
frequent interaction with the child
New Zealand Disability Strategy Objective 3:
Provide the best education for disabled people
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Jubilee Grant keeps me on top of my studies
By Marieka Tallon
Hello I’m Marieka and I really love doing crafty things and spending time with my cousins and
friends. Going to school is great fun too as I get to do those things and keep learning with
everyone. It’s been quite hard though over the years to keep up with my school work as I have
spent so much time in hospital. I’m only 10yrs old and have had about 10 surgeries so far. My
mum has been running around for me photocopying schoolwork and dropping it off again so I can
try and keep up with my friends. This has obviously been quite hard to keep going, but the good
news is that I have now received a laptop from CCS Disability Action and the Jubilee Trust and am
able to receive my schoolwork by email while I am away from school. This has been so great for
me to keep learning and busy while I’m away from school. I can also explore other craft and
educational sites on the web which is fun. And in my spare time I love using the laptop to watch
DVDs with my friends. I’m really rapt with my new laptop, so thanks Jubilee Trust for keeping me
on track with my school work.
New Zealand Disability Strategy Objective 3:
Provide the best education for disabled people
This is me… dancing
by Rodney Bell
I’ve have been in the United States dancing for nine months now, touring down the West Coast,
and up the East Coast. There are still more places AXIS is yet to go and the finishing destination
is Staten Island, New York. I really enjoy touring and meeting and touching souls. The USA is
such a big place and the land is vast and beautiful. It’s great to experience deserts and snow
storms then ice storms while on tour. The USA has such a history which I’m taught about
wherever I go. Sometimes it’s hard to listen to but it seems people are trying to get over it and
carve new pathways for the future.
I have taught at many schools here doing AXIS Assemblies, which is a cute educational show we
have put together for the kids. It’s well received and such fun to perform. The children ask
interesting questions after each show. AXIS reaches out to thousands of children each year. I’m
amazed at how many children we come across with and without disabilities. I have been
promoted to teaching a teen class for AXIS and in the near future I will be attending various
teacher training workshops around the country. This will enhance my knowledge so I when I
return home to Aotearoa I can feed the youth of the future what I have learnt. You can check out
what’s coming up for AXIS on its website, www.axisdance.org.
I miss home often and have memories I draw upon when the lonely bug bites. I perform with all my
heart and represent my country and people the best I can, building a bridge for disabled cultures
that may sometime in the near future be crossed.
I would like to thank Jubilee Trust for supporting me and making it possible for me to be here –
tēnei te mihi; Tony Howe and Phillip Patston for believing in me – Tēnā kōrua, tēnā kōrua; and
Pamela Ferguson for shining the light so I could see where I was going.
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New Zealand Disability Strategy Objective 9:
Support lifestyle choices, recreation and culture for disabled people
Life’s great – let’s play (and learn)
By Marta Cullen, CCS Disability Action Early Intervention Teacher
There are many ways of learning. Children learn by watching, by listening and especially by
doing/playing. Children are naturally active and learn through their bodies long before they can
talk.
Communication is one of the most important parts of our daily life. Help your child to
develop these skills in a fun way.
Give lots of opportunities for physical play – with some time outdoors every day if possible.
Physical play helps children develop strength, balance and skills.
Make a low obstacle course outside with, for example, a bag of compost (unopened),
canvas-covered cushions, a tunnel made from an old tablecloth and a few stairs. Children
can climb around, over, through and learn the meaning of the words while doing it.
Encourage them to use their hands. Paint the fence, using a paintbrush, a small bucket of
water and add some food colouring. They learn to understand the words “up”, “down”,
“side” while painting. Let them play with sand and water and mix it. They learn about wet,
dry, sticky etc.
Blow bubbles with them. These can be bought at the $2 dollar shop and refills can be made
from dishwashing detergent. Children learn about floating and popping of bubbles and learn
to understand the words.
CCS Disability Action News
Holocaust Remembrance Day
By Eleanor Hooper, CCS Disability Action
I wonder how many of you know of Holocaust Remembrance Day – a day that has been set aside
for remembering the victims of the Holocaust. This year it was on May 1.
The Holocaust was a significant time for the Jewish people. It was also a significant time for
disabled people.
The Nazi persecution of the physically and mentally disabled was their first step in their quest for
racial purity. They began passing laws to eliminate the disabled population in 1933. That’s only 75
years ago.
During World War II, selection and eradication campaigns were initially directed primarily at
inmates of state psychiatric hospitals, and children living in state institutions for the mentally and
physically disabled, as it was considered a waste of money to keep them alive. (The Nazis were
not alone. In 1942 an American psychiatrist, Dr Foster Kennedy, advocated killing mentally
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retarded children of five and older for much the same reason.) Some of the oldest and most
respected hospitals in Germany served as extermination centres, equipped with gas chambers
disguised as showers, and crematoria. By 1941 the programme expanded to include older children
with disabilities, and by 1943 included healthy Jewish children. When the mass extermination of
Jews and other “undesirables” began, these gas chambers were shipped east and installed at
Auschwitz and other extermination camps. An estimated 200,000 disabled children and adults
were killed.
On a more positive note, in that same time period, through the thoughts, words, actions and
donations of good-hearted people, the New Zealand Crippled Children Society was founded and
began its work.
Dr Alexander Gillies, appointed orthopaedic surgeon at Wellington Hospital in 1929, who saw
firsthand the effects of polio, began a campaign to interest the public in the problems faced by
disabled people.
In May 1930 Dr Gillies was invited to address the Wellington Rotary Club, resulting in a resolution
by the club that eventually led to Rotary, under the leadership of District Governor Sir John Illot,
establishing the New Zealand Crippled Children Society in 1935. All expenses connected with the
formation of the Society and its 16 Branches throughout the country were borne by Rotary Clubs.
Lord Nuffield, a British philanthropist, volunteered an endowment of ₤50,000 as a nucleus for the
service, which inspired the Wilsons to donate their home in Takapuna as well as another
endowment of ₤10,000. Another leading citizen of Auckland, Mr H.S. Dadley, who had died two
years previously, had left ₤180,000 for the establishment of a home for crippled children in
Auckland.
The aim and policy of the Society was to ascertain the needs of disabled children, and later adults
as well, in the way of treatment, education, vocational training and suitable employment, and
generally to show a friendly care and personal interest in their condition, circumstances and future.
They visited families in their homes and provided support and information. Later the Society
changed its name to New Zealand CCS, and then last year rebranded as CCS Disability Action.
All of us involved with CCS Disability Action continue to build on these foundations in our work
supporting people throughout the pathway of life.
New Zealand Disability Strategy Objective 1:
Encourage and educate for a non-disabling society
Making an informed choice
By Ruby Chan, Early Intervention Teacher
Transition to school is a stressful period for families. Choices to be considered, decisions to be
made, funding applied for; it is a period of upheaval and change in any child’s and family’s life. The
CCS Disability Action early intervention team supports families through this period.
An example of how we can help: A migrant family, living in Auckland with a limited knowledge of
English, found themselves faced with this dilemma. The mother was keen that their child attend a
mainstream school, the father had concerns around safety, and was more inclined towards a
special school.
The CCS Disability Action early intervention teacher, assisted by an interpreter, went with them
to visit schools in both categories. After weeks of discussion and phone calls, the early
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intervention teacher helped them sort out their thoughts, list all the criteria and draw an informed
comparison of both options. The results showed that the main concern was the child’s safety as
the mainstream school was only partially fenced. The early intervention teacher worked with the
school and they in return assured the family that their child could stay in the pilot class (a class for
new entrants with a higher teacher – student ratio, and therefore a safer environment) until she
was ready to move, and that there were plans to have the school fully fenced in the near future.
The early intervention teacher continues to liaise with other agencies working with the child, keeps
in touch with the family and visits the child at school where she has settled in and is doing really
well.
The family is pleased with their decision and the fact that their child can attend the local
mainstream school like other children.
Te Ao Hurihuri – The Contemporary World
By Pavan Herbert
Ko Motatau te Maunga
Ko Waitangi te Awa
Ko Ngapuhi te Iwi
Ko Ngatihine te Hapu
Ko Ngati Kawa te Marae
Ko Ngatokimatawhauroa te Waka
Ko Kawiti te whare tupuna
Ko Pavan toku ingoa, na reira tēnā tatou katoa
My name is Pavan Herbert and I hail from the centre of the universe, a little place called
Kawakawa 25 kilometres north of Whangarei. This is my story of how CCS Disability Action and
Child Youth and Family collectively supported me to relocate and live my life in Whangarei. I
currently reside with a wonderful whanau in Whangarei who have been very supportive in teaching
me the about the important things in life. At Christmas time I went with my new whanau camping
to Pataaua South, something I have never ever done in my life and I am hoping that this
Christmas we will do the same. The highlights for me back then were the fishing, diving for
kaimoana, lots and lots of swimming and heaps of eating. For Christmas I got a cellphone from
my new whanau. This has given me the ability to keep in touch with my friends and some whanau
members back in Kawakawa. I attend kura at Te Kura Kaupapa O Te Rawhitiroa, Tikipunga,
Whangarei. Favourite activities at kura are kapa haka, volleyball, rugby, and playing the guitar and
singing with mates at lunch break. I have excelled in learning te reo; at times I have struggled but
with support from CCS Disability Action support worker Kylie I have been inspired to achieve to
the highest level possible. A huge success in my life has been able to live inclusively with my new
whanau who have been awesome role models for me and continue to do this daily. At the end of
kura I wish to attend university to learn about computers and continue with my te reo so that I can
pass this knowledge on to my children.
No reira tēnā tatou katoa
Pavan Herbert
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New Zealand Disability Strategy Objective 9:
Support lifestyle choices, recreation and culture for disabled people.
Funding Update
By Linda Blair, Social Marketer/Fundraiser
OfficeMax has been a significant, ongoing supporter of CCS Disability Action for a number of
years. They have recently launched a new product which will directly support our work and help to
promote our message of inclusion.
The Paper Pig, a paper recycling tray, was developed by OfficeMax as an eco-friendly way to
encourage people to recycle paper. OfficeMax Managing Director Kevin Obern says, “I liked the
concept and wanted to use the tray as a way of realising another goal – to partner with a
worthwhile community organisation and offer them an ongoing donation from the proceeds of the
sale of a product. CCS Disability Action were approached and presented with the idea and the
final result is The Paper Pig.”
Chris Potts, Regional Manager CCS Disability Action says that the donation of 5c from each tray
sold will go to support our work in the community.
“We are grateful for this donation and are pleased that OfficeMax has given us the opportunity to
spread our message of inclusion and community sustainability to a wider audience in an
innovative way.”
The Paper Pig costs $1.29 and can be purchased from the Office Max catalogue or online
(www.officemax.co.nz) or contact Pamela Johnson on 09 571 5071.
Thank you Sanitarium
CCS Disability Action Community Gardens would like to take this opportunity to thank Sanitarium
as we create gardens that are accessible to everyone.
Our neighbourhood company generously allowed access through their site to our building site and
gardens during the creation of our new office space. They also provided us space for temporary
storage of the timber used in the building of our new raised beds.
Many thanks to all your employees and for your patience during this process!
National Bank Volunteer Day
Owen Burgess, Business Banking Manager, National Bank
On 6th May, 10 National Bank staff armed with little more than enthusiasm descended on the CCS
Disability Action Gardens in Royal Oak to provide willing labour.
We were greeted by Scott Thiemann, CCS Disability Action Community Gardens Supervisor. Scott
showed the team around the gardens and provided us with a good insight as to what the gardens
are aiming to achieve as they are redeveloped to provide a fully accessible community facility.
Off to work we go, getting on with a number of different gardening tasks – weeding, potting,
planting, digging and plenty of moving soil in wheelbarrows. During the day we all had a chance to
have a go at each of the tasks at hand. The team were of varying backgrounds (and gardening
experience) and Scott was able to provide us with an education in sustainable/organic gardening
along the way.
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After an honest day’s work, I have to say that it most satisfying that we were able to see the
difference we had made to the gardens. It’s fair to say that more work needs to be done; however
we all look forward to the “finished product” and wish CCS Disability Action all the very best for the
remainder of the project.
Community opportunities
Discover New Zealand’s fully accessible cave
Catherine Daly, CCS Disability Action
If you or someone in your family has a disability that affects mobility, you may well have crossed
caving off your holiday activities list. Negotiating the rough ground and squeezing through tight
holes may not seem your idea of a good time, particularly if you’re not too steady on your feet, and
you might think it is near impossible if you use a wheelchair to get around. However, there are
many beautiful awe-inspiring sights underground in the limestone caves of Waitomo, curious rock
formations clinging to the ceiling, underground rivers and hidden waterfalls, not to mention NZ’s
native glow-worms lighting up the underground haven with an ominous blue glow. Sights worth
seeing I’m sure everyone agrees….
So welcome to New Zealand’s accessible cave. On a recent trip to Waitomo with our family from
the UK, we stopped at Waitomo, keen to explore the famous underground caverns. We opted on
doing the Ruakuri Cave tour, a 1.6km guided tour on foot. Arriving at the cave entrance we were
ushered inside and down a long spiral walkway, known as the drum, and through double doors
into the caves. We walked along concrete walkways while our friendly knowledgeable guide
pointed out the various interesting features. They explained how the walkways had been carefully
constructed to make the cave accessible without disturbing the natural environment. As our
fascinating tour came to an end I realised I hadn’t seen one step, and the tour guide assured me
that the cave was totally wheelchair and buggy friendly. As long as your wheelchair can fit through
the spacer back at the booking office then you’re good to go; if not, then there are wheelchairs you
can borrow free of charge.
The fact that the tour is 100% accessible isn’t mentioned on their website, but this oversight is
something they are looking into. In the meantime let’s get the word around so more people can
experience the beautiful environment that we’re blessed with here in New Zealand.
Details of the Ruakuri Cave Tour can be found at www.waitomo.com/ruakuri-cave.aspx or by
phoning 0800 228 464. The Ruakuri Cave tour departs from The Legendary Black Water Rafting
Co, 585 Waitomo Caves Road, Waitomo.
New Zealand Disability Strategy Objective 9:
Support lifestyle choices, recreation and culture for disabled people.
Touch Compass Workshops
Don’t miss the chance to learn from NZ’s leading integrated dance company Touch Compass,
which combine dancers with and without a disability in stunning performances and training events.
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All levels of skill and ability welcome. The workshops offer participants the opportunity to express
their creativity through movement in a fun and supportive environment.
Where: Grey Lynn Community Centre, 510 Richmond Rd, Grey Lynn
Block 1: 2.30pm - 4.30pm Saturdays 21st Jun, 28th Jun, 5th and 26th Jul, and 2nd Aug.
Block 2: 2.30pm - 4.30pm Saturdays 9th Aug, 16th Aug, 23rd Aug, 30th Aug, and 6th Sept.
Cost: Block of 5 workshops: $75.00 - all ten workshops: $135.00 (10% discount)
How to Book: Contact Rachel at info@touchcompass.org.nz or phone (09) 4460477 or mobile 021
989 446 for a booking form and further details.
Pharmacy prescriptions
If you get a pharmacy prescription from anywhere other than where you are enrolled with a
Primary Health Organisation PHO you are charged $15 per item. This includes prescriptions from
hospitals, specialists, accident and emergency departments and general practitioners other than
your usual GP. The only exceptions are community service cards or high use health card holders.
There is also a subsidy after 20 items, so it is important to only purchase your scripts from your
PHO pharmacy so you benefit from this subsidy. For more information contact your PHO.
New criteria for people to receive a vehicle modification via Enable New Zealand
In order to receive funding for a vehicle modification, a person with a disability must rely on a
vehicle to do one of the following:
Travel to and from their place of full time employment
Travel to and from a place of tertiary education or vocational training
Undertake their role as the main carer of a dependent child or children
For more information visit the Enable NZ website: www.enable.co.nz
Are you looking for funding?
H E Fairey Family Trust
Provides funding for individuals with a physical impairment who receive ongoing support from CCS
Disability Action. Please contact your local CCS Disability Action Branch.
Jubilee Trust Funding
Grants are available in partnership with CCS Disability Action and are made to people with
physical impairments who live in Northland, Auckland and Whakatane.
Contact Jo 09 414 9780 on or by email auckland@ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz
Variety Grants
Every month there are funds available to individuals, families and organisations for the benefit of
children. For more information visit www.variety.org.nz
Wilson Home
Funding for equipment for children and young people up to the age of 21.
Please phone Alan on 09 488 4688 ext 5853 or visit www.wilsonhometrust.org.nz
Visit our website www.northern.ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz for more details. If you need a
printed copy please phone 09 414 9780.
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Community Contacts
Healthline
Includes general wellbeing health advice. It is free and provides a service 24 hours a day.
0800 611 116
Auckland Womens Centre
Offers support promoting empowerment and well-being for all women.
(09) 376 3227 or www.awc.org.nz
Man Alive Mens Centre
A service run by men for men.
(09) 835 0509 or www.manalive.org.nz
Youthline
Free helpline – 24 hour service for young people and their families.
0800 37 66 33
Kidsline
A telephone support line for pre-teens.
(09) 543 754
Lifeline
Provides telephone, face to face counselling and suicide intervention workshops.
(09) 522 2999 or 0800 11 17 77
Heartfelt – Salvation Army
Heartfelt provides volunteers to visit regularly, provide support and community contact for over 65
year olds.
(09) 479-8950
Family Violence, it’s not ok!
Violence in any shape or form is not ok! Asking for help is.
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0800 456 450 or www.areyouok.org.nz
Urge
Provides useful information and resources on youth related topics.
www.urge.co.nz
Early Intervention service providers in Auckland
CCS Disability Action
Early Intervention Team
Regional Office
6 - 8 Omega Street, Albany
Phone: 09 414 9780 Fax: 09 414 9781
auckland@ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz
Ministry of Education - Auckland
12-18 Normanby Road
Mt Eden
Auckland
Private Bag 92644
Symonds Street
Auckland
Phone: 09 632 9400 Fax: 09 632 9401
enquiries.auckland@minedu.govt.nz
Ohomairangi (who have staff who are able to work in immersion Maori environments).
Early Intervention Services
P.O. Box 23185
Hunters Corner, Papatoetoe
Ph: 09 263 0798 Fax: 09 263 0542
Parent Support Group
This is a play session where parent and child enjoy a fun and informal educational environment.
An early intervention teacher operates this session on Wednesdays during school terms.
Where: 148 Sycamore Drive, Sunnynook. FREE
For more information contact Kylie Henderson, CCS Disability Action phone 09 414 9796 or 027
695 0320
Events
For more detailed information on these events and others in your area, visit our website
www.northern.ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz
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Northland events
Laughing Samoans – ‘Crack Me Off’
The Centre, 45 Cobham Road, Kerikeri
Friday 11th July at 8pm
Info: 09 407 0260 for ticket bookings
Winter Race Days at Ruakaka
11 & 12 July and 1 & 2 August, 12pm
and midweek 18 July & 27 August, 12pm
Races, food, beverages & entertainment Free return bus from Kamo, Kensington & City. For more
details, phone 09 432 7249
Saturday 2 August – Winter @ Waipu
Hall Market 9-1pm in Coronation Hall Waipu Barrow and Boot Sale
Where: Main street of Waipu and Caledonian Park, 9am-12pm, followed by The Great Waipu
Wheelbarrow Race
Bring your wheelbarrow & join the race....
Where: Caledonian Park at 12 midday
Who: Steve Jones 09 4327159
Bay of Islands Jazz Festival
8-10 August 2008
The Bay of Islands comes alive with the sounds of smooth jazz and sultry blues.
For further info ph Shirley May 04 404 1063 Email:maysplace@actrix.co.nz
Website: www.jazz-blues.co.nz
Northern Advocate Northland Home Show
ASB Leisure Centre, Whangarei
15-17 August 2008 - Friday & Saturday 10.00 - 5pm, Sunday 10.00am - 4pm
Info: Events Northland ph 07 470 3200
Auckland events
The Funky Monkeys Get Up Go!
NZ’s very own musical super-group for kids Thursday, 10 July, 10 - 11am
Bruce Mason Centre, Takapuna
Tickets $15 (group discounts available)
Info: 0800 111 999
Cinderella On Ice
“A spellbinding dramatic experience that will thrill the senses”. 11 July - 20 July
Aotea Centre, THE EDGE, Mayoral Drive.
Tickets $59.00 - $89.00, from Ticketek
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Romeo & Juliet
Christopher Hampson’s exquisite ballet version of Romeo & Juliet.
Featuring the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra. 23 - 27 July 2008
Aotea Centre, THE EDGE, Mayoral Drive
Cost: Adult $35-$85, Child $21-$51, Conc $31.50-$76
Music and lyrics benefit concert
Featuring New Zealand’s up and coming musicians and some special guests.
Friday, 29 August 2008, 7 - 10.30pm
Raye Freedman Arts Centre, Epsom Girls Grammar School. Tickets $25
Info: (021) 299 2285
Bach Musica
Bach Family NZ Premiers, 7 September 2008, 5pm
Holy Trinity Cathedral: Cnr Parnell Rd & St Stephen’s Ave, Parnell. Tickets $40 (adult) $35
(senior) Info: Ph 09 361 1000
Resources
The Resilient Family: Living with Your Child’s Illness or Disability
By Paul Power & Arthur Dell Orto
This is a book for families with a child who has a serious illness or disability.
It will help families to manage stress and develop coping and self-assessment skills, develop
effective relationships with health professionals and to recognise the current needs of the family
and its individual members.
Reflections from a Different Journey: What Adults with Disabilities Wish all Parents Knew
By Stanley Klein & John Kemp
This book has 40 inspiring essays written by successful adult role models who share what it is like
to grow up with a disability.
A Friend Like Henry
By Nuala Gardner
This is the inspiring account of a family’s struggle to break into their son’s autistic world – and how
a dog made the real difference.
Married with Special-Needs Children: A Couples’ Guide to Keeping Connected
By Laura Marshak & Fran Pollock Prezant
In this practical guide, the authors look at a range of marital and parenting issues, including
communication breakdowns, lack of romance and sexual intimacy, conflict over parenting styles,
differing expectations of a child and strategies for coping with stress.
Lessons From My Child: Parents’ Experiences of Life with a Disabled Child
By Cindy Dowling, Neil Nicoll & Bernadette Thomas
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With the arrival of a child with intellectual or physical disabilities, parents must begin to deal with a
new, unplanned reality and take the first tentative steps on a long and challenging life journey.
This is a collection of stories from parents of children with special needs from all around the world.
Supportive Parenting: Becoming an Advocate for your Child with Special Needs
By Jan Starr Campito
When Jan Campito first entered the world of special needs, she trusted the experts to tell her what
was wrong and how to help her children. However, she soon realised that was not leading to the
support her children needed. Jan has become a comprehensive advocate for her children with
special needs, and in this book, she shares with other parents some of her experiences and some
of what she has learnt in the process.
Book your next function room with us
You can hire CCS Disability Action’s fully accessible function, board or training rooms at its new
Royal Oak site. You can select rooms for the times that suit you – for hourly, full or multi-day hire
(subject to availability).
Take advantage of the latest facilities including datashow, PA system or hearing loops for
example. Each space has a fully equipped kitchenette with on demand hot water, fridge and
dishwashers which means you can do your own catering or bring catering in. Space available for
groups from 12 – 80 people. The training room can seat up to 80 comfortably and the board room
up to 20 (or 12 around a board table). Eight mobility parking spaces are available within 50 metres
of the venue.
For further information and booking details, contact Joy McGregor phone (09) 625 9378 or email
joy.mcgregor@ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz
Thank you to CCS Disability Action Northern Region
Supporters
ASB Community Trust
SkyCity
OfficeMax
The Lion Foundation
The Southern Trust
Mangere Bridge Sports & Cultural Society Inc
Ryan Perpetual Charitable Trust
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