Summer 2016 - Celebrations from our 80th year

Widening
Horizons
News and
perspectives
on disability
UPPER SOUTH | Summer 2015-2016
TE HUNGA HAUĀ MAURI MŌ NGĀ TĀNGATA KĀTOA
THIS ISSUE:
Celebrations from
our 80th year
Wendy Coutts
QSM
Page
22
Disability
Awareness
Page
16
David Clode
Life Membership
Page
24
This
Issue:
Our 80th Anniversary
From the Chief Executive
3
Hon Nicky Wagner,
Minister for Disability Issues 4
80th Anniversary Celebrations:
South Canterbury
West Coast
Nelson
Blenheim
Christchurch
5
6
7
8
9
CCS History
from 1935 to 2015
10
Our Stories revisited
12
Te hunga hauā mauri
mō ngā tāngata kātoa
14
Disability Awareness
16
Youth Opportunities
18
Mentoring
20
Going the Extra Mile
Wendy Coutts QSM
22
Long Serving Staff
Lyn Anthony
23
Life Membership
Nelson Marlborough
David Clode
24
Around the region
25
Many Thanks!
26
Introducing
27
National Certificates
completed
27
2
80th Anniversary
celebrations were held
around our region.
See more on
pages 5 to 9.
TE HUNGA HAUĀ MAURI MŌ NGĀ TĀNGATA KĀTOA
From the Chief Executive
on the strengths and experience of a community
organisation like ours. We have only got to where
we are today by sheer hard work, and by being
determined to be at the forefront of change, evolving
to meet the needs of disabled New Zealanders
as well as government requirements. We have
invested our precious resources in innovative
practice and been staunch about our values and
principles. We will never ever accept anything less
than a fully inclusive New Zealand in all aspects of
life. That is what we stand for.
Since February 2015 we have been holding a
series of events around the country to mark our
80th birthday. It was the inspiration of our Rotary
founders in 1935 who decided to take action
to address issues for a group of people (young
children with disabilities) who they felt were not
getting a fair go.
As a result, a network of Branches was established.
Eighty years on, this work is carried on by dedicated
paid and voluntary staff supported by governance
members. Our work is always focused on the rights
of disabled people to have a good life and is built
on partnerships with them, families/whanau and
community groups to bring about a more inclusive
society.
We would like to be around for another 80 years
if there are still unmet needs. We believe that
what we offer today in terms of services, support
and advocacy is relevant to disabled people and
their families/whanau and should be an attractive
proposition to any government wishing to build
Widening Horizons. Summer 2015-2016
The major challenge facing our organisation
is how well we adjust to the new approaches
to funding support currently being mooted by
government and the increased emphasis on
individualised funding. These challenges will
impact on all service providers in the sector and we
are currently spending some time and resources
developing systems to accommodate this change.
In the meantime, it is important that we continue
to remain agile and innovative, whilst ensuring we
stay true to our mission, values and our core work.
Like all community organisations, we are subject to
a range of economic and social pressures and we
will need to manage our resources carefully over
coming years.
We have just walked through the festive season –
one in which we talk about goodwill to all people.
Let’s hope that in 2016 we see even more goodwill
and understanding so that New Zealand continues
to be a more inclusive society in which everyone
feels valued and able to make a contribution.
David Matthews is
Chief Executive of CCS Disability Action
3
Hon Nicky Wagner,
Minister for Disability Issues
Making the most of the disabled talent pool
I‘m thrilled to be able to contribute to Widening
Horizons 80th anniversary edition. Congratulations
to all who have been involved in giving disabled
people a voice.
I want to take this opportunity to talk about an
issue that is important to many disabled people –
enabling more disabled people into work.
Employers want skilled
staff with the right
attitude.
Employers
may
currently
be
missing out on an
untapped talent pool
of people who really
want to work.
The 2013 Disability
Survey told us that
45%
of
disabled
adults, compared with
72% of non-disabled
adults, were employed.
As I travel around New
Zealand,
disabled
people keep telling me
they want to work and
need people to give
them an opportunity.
Some of the benefits of
having disabled people
in the workplace are:
•Increasing
the talent
pool within a workplace
•Appealing to a wider and more
diverse customer base
•An inclusive, flexible culture enables
employers to attract the best people
and get the best from them
•Employers of disabled people also see
improved organisational performance.
Project 300 is a new and exciting initiative to
support employers and disabled employees.
We know that disabled people and people with
4
health conditions remain over-represented in poor
socio-economic outcomes. With this in mind, Social
Development Minister, Anne Tolley, and myself have
identified that the low unemployment in Christchurch
provides an opportunity for a win win solution –
helping employers access all the available talent
in Christchurch while enabling disabled people and
people with health
conditions the best
possible opportunity
to find work.
Project 300, as it
has been named,
commenced in April
2015 and has a target
of getting an extra
300 people with a
disability or a health
condition who are
currently on a benefit
into sustainable work
over the next year.
Also in April 2015,
Work and Income
expanded the Opt In
trial from 16 sites up
to 22 sites, including
three in Christchurch.
A key part of Project
300 is the launch
of Opt In trial in the
three
participating
Christchurch sites.
Opt In provides extra help to people who get the
Supported Living Payment and want to get a job,
do some training, or study. It is aimed at people
aged from 16 to 29 years and has been trialled in
16 centres around New Zealand since November
2014.
We know that having a job provides disabled
people with more than just a pay packet. It means
they can play a greater part in their community and
it means they have more independence. For these
reasons, I am passionate about enabling more
disabled people to find work; it is a challenge worth
pursuing.
TE HUNGA HAUĀ MAURI MŌ NGĀ TĀNGATA KĀTOA
80th Anniversary Celebrations
South Canterbury
The year of anniversary celebrations for CCS
Disability Action began in February right where it all
started those 80 years ago.
It was in Timaru that the Crippled Children Society
was officially formed at a Rotary New Zealand
conference in February 1935, leading quickly to
the formation of branches nationwide.
A week of events was organised, in conjunction
with local Rotary Clubs, to mark the impressive
milestone in Timaru.
It began with a Mayoral morning tea on Monday
23rd February, which was hosted by Timaru District
Mayor, Damon Odey, and included the cutting of an
anniversary cake.
Throughout the week, the CCS Disability Action
Timaru office also housed a photographic display
portraying stories of some local people with
disabilities and their families. These days were
‘open days’, too, so that members of the community
were able to come in and look around the office.
David Matthews, Chief Executive, and
Rotarian, Tony Henderson,
celebrating partnership
Finally, the evening of Friday 27th February saw the
Timaru office hosting a delightful wine and cheese
function, drawing a great week of festivities to a
close.
CCS Disability Action National
President, Kim Willetts, and Damon
Odey, Mayor of Timaru District
Mayor, Damon Odey, with Julie Fosbender,
South Canterbury Branch Team Leader,
and David Matthews, Chief Executive
Widening Horizons. Summer 2015-2016
5
80th Anniversary Celebrations
West Coast
The West Coast celebrations of the society’s 80th
anniversary have been tied in with our annual big
day out, which is called McDonald’s and Mayor’s
(M&M) Day.
approximately 160 people who attended. Two
local newspapers took photographs, which were
published in their next editions.
For the fifth year, disabled people and their families
and support people converged at the Greymouth
Aquatic Centre. Free use of the facilities was
provided by the council through the Mayor’s office.
The local branch of McDonald’s also provided
lunch, which was paid for completely by Vinay
Chandra, the owner and manager of McDonald’s
Greymouth. To top things off nicely, free ice creams
were provided by Fox Distributors.
After lunch, the official ceremony was held. A superb,
suitably-labelled cake was produced, which had
also been provided by the generous Mr Chandra.
The cake was cut by our most senior member, Mrs
Patsy Bell from Hokitika. Also in attendance were
the Grey District Mayor, Tony Kokshoorn, President
of Greymouth Rotary Club, Dr Christine Robertson,
then CCS Disability Action Upper South Regional
Manager, Ruth Teasdale, West Coast Committee
Chair, Pat Beck, Canterbury West Coast Branch
Services Manager, Stephanie Hauiti, manager of
McDonald’s Greymouth, Mr Vinay Chandra, and
local Service Coordinator, Robert Miedema.
Pat Beck, Patsy Bell and
Grey District Mayor, Tony Kockshoorn
A further project to mark the occasion was the
provision of a portable ramp for the Regent
Greymouth theatre. This was funded by the local
CCS Disability Action West Coast Committee and
the Community Christmas Tree Committee, as well
as Greypower, Greymouth Rotary and Greymouth
Rural Women.
Fun in the water at the Greymouth Aquatic
Centre at the McDonald's and Mayor's Day
After the various dignitaries made speeches
marking the occasion, the cake was cut and
the pieces distributed amongst the crowd of
6
Ronald McDonald and Hamburgler
entertaining the children
TE HUNGA HAUĀ MAURI MŌ NGĀ TĀNGATA KĀTOA
80th Anniversary Celebrations
Nelson
The Nelson office of CCS Disability Action celebrated
the 80th occasion with the unveiling of fence panels
representing the history and the development of
services at the Nelson office over this timeframe.
The unveiling was on 10 April 2015, the anniversary
of the Branch opening in Nelson in 1935.
Members of the community who are involved with
the organisation gathered together to celebrate,
including members from the Nelson Rotary Clubs
and Nelson Post-Polio Group, both of whom were
the very foundation of CCS Disability Action.
Nelson Marlborough Branch Patron
Sydney Blechynden cutting cake
80th anniversary fundraiser fashion
show models – all people we support,
except Barbara Gould (right)
Rex Wastney from the Nelson Post-Polio Group
and Jan Aberhardt, President of the Nelson Rotary
Clubs, were invited to carry out the unveiling. Rex
received support from the then Crippled Children
Society in its early days, after he contracted polio
at the age of 11 in 1949. Rex explained that he
wore callipers and had 14 operations on his legs.
He admitted he was thankful for the support that
he received from the Crippled Children Society and
his surgeon Alexander Gillies who, he said, helped
him become mobile after a long time of needing to
use a wheelchair.
Fence panels outside the CCS Disability Action premises in Nelson
Widening Horizons. Summer 2015-2016
7
80th Anniversary Celebrations
Blenheim
A fortnight before our 80th anniversary
celebrations, the Blenheim team had to book a
bigger hall! Over 120 people from all walks of life
within our community joined us on Friday 16th
October to celebrate with us, including the Mayor,
local employers, staff of other community agencies
and groups, and of course the people we support
and our own staff. The event was a Friday wine
and cheese evening, organised by our governance
with support from the local staff and community
sponsorship.
The crowd, cake, and
original documents
Our Local Committee Chair, David Clode, welcomed
everyone to what proved a very full, multi-sensory
programme. It included speeches from our National
President, Kim Willetts, who gave an overview of CCS
Disability Action and national governance, followed
by our CEO, David Matthews, on local communities’
involvement with CCS Disability Action. The Mayor
of Marlborough, Alistair Sowman, considered how
the community can support and be inclusive of
people with impairments, focusing on employment.
We listened to Anneke Thwaites’ song, “Safety in
Numbers”, which was gifted for the occasion.
Artwork was presented to commemorate the
80th and the Figures of Diversity installation was
Community Awards and FODs
8
unveiled, revealing about 160 small clay figures
representing diversity and inclusion within a
population. Each one was made by someone
connected with CCS Disability Action. There was a
video presentation of our first paid employee, Dawn
Neal, before Wendy Coutts QSM, Local Committee
member and ex-National President, spoke on “The
Journey – Being a Volunteer”.
Blenheim’s Team Leader, Paula Cohen, then
addressed the guests with a focus on supported
employment, and we heard from two such
employers, Vinnie Redwood from Omega Seafoods
and Rodger Cullen from PlaceMakers, who likewise
extolled supported employment’s benefits. Awards
for Inclusion and Appreciation were presented
by staff to Tim Healey for superb respite care,
Marlborough Taxis for their unstinting support of
people living with impairments, the wonderful gym
staff at Stadium 2000, Heather Richards, driving
instructor extraordinaire, and Vinnie Redwood,
longstanding supportive employer.
Employee Caine Ivanow and his employer,
Popey (Brendan Pope), Marlborough Potters
Fran Maguire & Debs Hall with FODs
Before we moved on to a feast of cheeses, mussels,
salmon and other tasty Marlborough tidbits, a New
Zealand-shaped cake was cut, all concluding with
a toast to CCS Disability Action and Rotary New
Zealand, whose impetus around children with
polio all those years ago saw the creation of our
organisation.
TE HUNGA HAUĀ MAURI MŌ NGĀ TĀNGATA KĀTOA
80th Anniversary Celebrations
Christchurch
We held this fantastic celebration in our building
in Lichfield Street. The space was transformed
for the occasion with the addition of a marquee,
table linen and floral arrangements to provide a
welcoming venue, where 120 guests were able to
share drinks and canapés, stories and memories
of the past 80 years. Some familiar faces were
seen on the photo boards that were created for the
occasion, and many documents from our archives
showing the history of CCS Disability Action were
on display.
John Brandts-Giesen, the Chair of our Local
Executive Committee, started the evening’s
formalities off by touching on the history of CCS
Disability Action and thanking past and present
staff and supporters. He was followed by Peter
Bradley, who entertained us with his great humour
and personal story. Helena Tai then encouraged
others to be a part of the Local Advisory Committee
and National Board, and shared her wonderful
memories of being part of our organisation.
Peter Bradley, LAC Chair, and John
Brandts-Giesen, LEC Chair
Kim Willetts, National President, and David
Matthews, our Chief Executive, spoke of the past and
present ways we work with people with disabilities,
as well as the challenges and opportunities there
are for us in today’s climate. David shared his hope
that we are not still here in another 80 years as –
all going to plan – communities will by then be fully
inclusive.
Helena Tai, LAC member
Doreen McCoard, who was connected
with our organisation as a child
with polio, cutting the cake
Widening Horizons. Summer 2015-2016
A marquee was erected in the carpark
9
Our History from 1935 to 2015
1930s
• Dr Alexander Gillies speaks to the Wellington
Rotary Club on the needs of crippled children
• Resolution adopted at Rotary National
Conference for all Rotary clubs to work for
children with disabilities
• New Zealand Crippled Children Society launched
at District Conference of Rotary Clubs, held in
Timaru. Rotary approves draft constitution and
rules of the Society and gave £800 in donations
• Branch membership nationally, including life
and annual members – 3,661
1950s
• “Bringing up Crippled Children” booklet
published in conjunction with the New Zealand
Council for Educational Research
• The Spastic Fellowship, a group of young adults,
hold their third conference in Christchurch,
supported with £25 worth of travelling expenses
by the Society
• Establishment of visiting therapist service to
visit homes of children with physical disabilities
• Branch membership nationally, including life
and annual members – 14,465
1940s
• The Society has a stand at the New Zealand
Centennial Exhibition in Wellington – there
are over 3000 visitors including the GovernorGeneral Viscount Galway. The Executive
“provided a spinal carriage which was kept at
the Stand for the use of crippled children visiting
the Exhibition”
• Society receives from Mr Thomas Martin of
Victoria full patent rights for New Zealand to
produce an “invalid chair which Mr Martin is at
present manufacturing from old cycle parts”
• Branch membership nationally, including life
and annual members – 9,185
1960s
• New rules are adopted: Executive Council is
replaced by the New Zealand Council. Day to
day administration is to be carried out by a small
executive committee.
• History of the Society written by Mr HE Carey
completed
• Branch membership nationally, including life
and annual members – 19,138
1970s
• National Emblem designed by Robert Stenhouse
• International Symbol of Access adopted
• First issue of Access, the CCS national magazine,
produced
10
TE HUNGA HAUĀ MAURI MŌ NGĀ TĀNGATA KĀTOA
• First "Crippled Children Day" held
• Disabled Persons Community Welfare Act
passed
• First Outward Bound course for people with
disabilities held
• Branch membership nationally, including life
and annual members – 19,545
• Operation Mobility parking scheme launched
• Barrier Free campaign launched – 3,000
registered card holders
1980s
• International Year of Disabled Persons activities
included a nationwide Telethon
• 50th Jubilee – Golden Opportunity – celebrated
• Nancy Barnett was the first woman elected to
National Executive Board
• 14,000 Operation Mobility cardholders
1990s
• CCS adopts new name and logo – New Zealand
CCS
• National Bicultural Strategy is established
• Kids up the Road disability awareness puppet
programme launched
Widening Horizons. Summer 2015-2016
• 28,158 Operation Mobility cardholders – 62%
over the age of 60
• "On the Move: 60 year history of CCS" published
• Millennium Charter released
• Restructuring to 16 branches in 7 regions,
involving new constitutions, creation of Local
Advisory Committees and Local Executive
Committees – adopted and confirmed at AGM/
SGM
• Nelson and Marlborough branches merge
2000s
• 89,000 Mobility Parking permits
• "What Did You Say?" campaign, including
booklet, launched
• CCS becomes CCS Disability Action, including
a new statement ‘Including All People’ and
foundation statement ‘Te hunga hauā mauri mō
ngā tāngata kātoa’
• Repeal of the Disabled Persons Employment
Promotion Act
• UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with
Disabilities ratified by New Zealand, having been
signed the year before
• After successful lobbying by CCS Disability
Action, the fine for mobility parking misuse rises
from $40 to $150
• “Our stories” project launched
• Youth mentoring programme developed in
Christchuch
• Implementation of Māori Strategic Framework
• Implementation of Disability Leadership
Framework
2010s
• Over 126,000 Mobility Parking permits
• Canterbury earthquakes result in new
opportunities to work alongside council and other
disability organisations, e.g. in the Earthquake
Disability Leadership Group, to rebuild a new
and accessible Christchurch
• 2015 CCS Disability Action celebrates 80 years
since it was first established
11
Our Stories revisited
Looking back at the project 10 years on
“Our stories” was launched in 2007 and ran
for 18 months nationwide. The purpose of “our
stories” was to create a tide of change and more
opportunities for disabled people in their local
community. “Our stories” became a community
awareness roadshow and provided an opportunity
for all people in many communities to get to know
disabled people; it was a first for many.
CCS Disability Action worked collaboratively with
IHC – the first time that the two largest disability
organisations had joined forces to shift the thinking
about disability in the eyes of local communities.
Pip O’Connell from IHC and Sally Thomas from CCS
Disability Action were appointed to lead the “our
stories” project and take it to local communities
throughout New Zealand.
Sally Thomas has had a long association with CCS
Disability Action through one of her sons, who
attended early intervention 27 years ago. They
received tremendous support from the organisation
through some very challenging times, and also met
some wonderful people who are still in their lives
all these years later. Sally has also served on the
Local Advisory Committee and Local Executive
Committee over the years. Sally is now working for
CCS Disability Action again as a Service Coordinator
in Adult Services and is thoroughly enjoying it.
When the opportunity arose to work on “our
stories”, an exciting new project, Sally jumped at
the chance. The “our stories” project evolved when
a photographer from Norway, Hanne Johnsen, was
doing some work in the Fine Arts at Canterbury
University and was approached about capturing
the lives of disabled people. Hanne agreed to be
involved and was connected with a number of
disabled people who she followed with her camera,
documenting aspects of their daily lives. The black
and white images Hanne shot were incredibly
thought provoking and powerful.
At the same time, Glenn Busch was encouraged
by Liz Ryburn (the then Christchurch Branch
Services Manager) to interview some of the people
being photographed to put some context to the
photographs. Working collaboratively, Glenn and
Hanne produced the book, “The Man with No Arms
and Other Stories.” Sally reminisces, “Hanne and
Glenn did an absolutely stunning job – I know many
of the people in the book and I can hear them telling
Jamie Hoffman and Steve Roome
12
TE HUNGA HAUĀ MAURI MŌ NGĀ TĀNGATA KĀTOA
their story as I read.”
CCS Disability Action invested much time and
resources into the “our stories” project, which
became a community awareness roadshow. The
roadshow consisted of a photographic exhibition,
the book, workshops for primary school students
where local identities with diverse disabilities
shared about their lives, an employers evening,
and a sports and recreation evening, also utilising
local disabled people talking about what it means
to be employed or involved in their community.
“The 'our stories' project helped to start
conversations at all levels about how we could help
saw all forms of emotion from the general public –
coming face to face with the reality of disability was
very confronting for some. The school workshops
were amazing, especially the film-making aspect
where the students interviewed and filmed local
identities with disabilities and showcased their
work to the wider community at a Film Fest. We
heard employers telling their disabled employees
just how much they brought to the workplace.”
The communities “our stories” visited were very
involved and were encouraged at all levels to
participate. “The reaction of the general public was
mixed. It is fair to say that most were happy to learn
more about disability and how they could help
people to become part of their local community.
Sometimes it is just the small things that make
a difference – being a good neighbour, or having
someone over for a cuppa,” said Sally.
“The Man With No Arms” book is still available
and can be purchased from CCS Disability Action.
The “our stories” website is www.ourstories.co.nz,
where you can view the photographic exhibition
and watch a sample of the films made by students.
Leigh Montford
The Man With No
Arms & Other Stories
Jack Harwood
to include all people and the value that this added
to all people. When Pip and I arrived in a town we
met with the Mayor, the head of the Chamber of
Commerce, business people, schools, community
groups, and support organisations such as
Workbridge. We connected people together who
worked in the same town, but didn’t know each
other. Our aim was to search for stories about things
that were going really well and showcase these to
the wider community as a way of encouraging them
to also come on board and create opportunities. We
also got the local media on board and encouraged
everyone to attend the exhibition and workshops,”
explained Sally.
Sally reiterates that the reaction to “our stories”
was amazing and very positive: “It was wonderful
to see disabled people retelling stories about
their lives. For many it was the first time anyone
had been even remotely interested in them. As a
result, we saw people grow in so many ways. We
Widening Horizons. Summer 2015-2016
In this absorbing book Glenn Busch captures
with compelling authenticity the intimate
stories of nine people who live daily with the
reality of a disability. They speak candidly of
growing up, the importance of work, family,
relationships, parenthood, of wanting to be
treated like everyone else in a world that
still chooses to see them as different.
Hanne Johnsen’s images quietly capture
many personal moments and
show the mutual rapport
she has with the
people she met.
Now
only
$14.95
Available from CCS Disability Action
All proceeds go to CCS Disability Action
13
Te hunga hauā mauri mō ngā
O ngā kupu whakaro
As the Regional Coordinator for Kaimahi Whanau,
part of celebrating our 80th has been looking back
at how far we have come in the Whakateraki o Te
Wai Pounamu/Upper South Region. For our Māori
whānau/families, Te Ao Māori/the Māori world and
culture means working holistically with the person
and their whanau in line with our organisation’s
vision.
Over the years, we have been working at both
national and regional levels with Te Tiriti o Waitangi/
The Treaty of Waitangi, and today we are also
working on the implementation of CCS Disability
Action’s Maori Strategic Framework – entitled
“Titiro Whakamuri, Anga Whakamua” or “Look to
the past to gain strength to move forward” – into all
our offices within the region.
The future aim is to increase working with Māori
whānau and rangatira/leaders, and to have a more
formal working relationship with Māori providers
and iwi/tribes within the Whakateraki o Te Wai
Pounamu/Upper South Region. These pages
provide just a glimpse at some highlights over the
years of working alongside whānau in our region.
Ma-rea Clayton
14
Te Kowhaiwhai
The Kowhaiwhai was Dan Dihar’s design, with
ideas and suggestions from tangata whenua – for
example, Kera Browne suggested including the
cabbage tree and the mountain. Dan decided to
incorporate the CCS Disability Action logo and the
Timaru staff decided on the colours. When it was
completed Dan, on behalf of CCS Disability Action,
presented it at a Runaka hui at Arowhenua and had
it approved.
Aunty Kera Browne (nee Waka) was a matriarch for
Arowhenua and Ngai Tahu iwi. I (Ma-rea) remember
her from when I was growing up: a tiny, petite woman
who not many people would argue with! And if we
were going through Temuka on State Highway 1, we
always had to stop in at whatever time of the day
or night for a cup of tea and a catch-up with the
whanau.
Maungati means mountain of cabbage tree and is
significant to Arowhenua, as it was used for shelter
and as waterproof material for many things within
our whakapapa/history.
Ma-rea Clayton and Mike Kokiri
TE HUNGA HAUĀ MAURI MŌ NGĀ TĀNGATA KĀTOA
tāngata kātoa
Johnny's carving
This is the story about the carving that hangs on
the wall at Bradley House, the CCS Disability Action
holiday home in Paroa, near Greymouth.
It all started when our kaumatua, John (“Johnny”)
McGee, went into his shed one day and knocked
his shin on that old oak bedhead, yet again. He
picked up that darn old bedhead and threw it up
on the bench.
At this stage, he did not know what he was going to
do with it. He stood back, looked at it, and decided
to write CCS on it.
Then from that day on, Peg, his wife, knew just
where to find him. He was always in the shed, only
coming in for a meal or a cuppa or bed. He began to
carve… and as he carved, the story emerged.
At about the same time a very generous couple,
John and Jeanette Oliver, came to the CCS office
and gifted a section of land to build a holiday home
on. This is a gift that will never be forgotten.
The land was then blessed by local iwi, who gifted a
wonderful piece of pounamu from a local river. The
whole community got behind the fundraising and
building of the holiday home – but that is another
story of its own.
Johnny was in his shed carving month after month,
not telling a soul what he was up to. Then one day,
when the holiday home was about to be opened,
Johnny phoned CCS and said he wanted to talk.
Since he was the kaumatua, out of respect the
worker dropped everything and went to his house.
Johnny met her at the door and said, “I will tell you
a story only once, and you will take the story and
share it out there.”
He took her inside – and there was the most
beautiful carving you could ever dream of. Happy
tears flowed while he told the story within the
carving.
The carving is mounted on black velvet, with thin
white satin ribbon separating the five parts to
the story. Right around the outside and weaving
through the carving is a jagged edge, which means
Widening Horizons. Summer 2015-2016
respect, whanau, caring and support.
Part one: Stand back and look at this part only.
This part tells of the young, elders, meeting others,
life’s ups and downs, getting together, marriage,
caring for each other, forming new relationships
and the start of life's journey.
Part two: If you stand back and look hard, there
is a baby with the umbilical cord around its neck.
Big events might happen – babies are born,
accidents may happen, or other life-changing
events. Life may take a sudden change. And
again, this part tells of life's ups and downs (some
big, some small).
Part three: Look into the carving. You will see a
person looking very scared.
This part speaks of stresses, turmoil, fear, feeling
lost, uncertainty and upheaval.
Part four: There are many things going on.
This is a reminder to find support when in need –
information, whanau, elders, community, friends,
organisations and new people.
Part five: Look into the carving. You will see arrows
reaching out and coming back from time to time.
In this part, there is some settledness, some
peace, and also life's ups and downs. Go out into
the community. You might need organisations
from time to time, so come back when needed.
You are a valued person, and you may need some
care. Make new friends, get on with life, maybe
get a job, have a go, have some fun and gain
confidence.
These are the five parts of the story.
Now stand right back from the carving and you
will see the letters “CCS” that the kaumatua wrote
on the bedhead the day he chucked it onto the
bench.
It won’t get his shin again now, will it?
Gloria Hammond
Service Coordinator 1997-2014
15
Disability Awareness
It's about ability
Over the 80 years since the inception of CCS
Disability Action, the organisation has always
played a role in society, challenging the rights of and
attitudes towards disabled people. As society has
changed ideas and approaches towards disability,
so too has the organisation.
Students at Beckenham School
The work of Disability Awareness and Education
teams is an ever-evolving one, always moving
with emerging ideas around how to contribute to
communities with the aim of better understanding
of and better attitudes towards disabled people.
programme in seven schools, with a total of 10
classes and over 250 Year 7 and 8 students taking
part.
It’s About Ability runs for up to 20 hours over a term
and differs from traditional disability awareness
work in schools in that it covers a wider base of
human rights and is much longer – traditionally, oneoff sessions of up to 1.5 hours have taken place.
Research tells us that short, one-off sessions have
little impact in terms of changing attitudes towards
disability and disabled people. Our aim is to make
a greater impact with this more comprehensive
programme.
In Term 3, 2015, research took place that will
contribute to a Master’s thesis being produced
in early 2016. We envisage the thesis will
provide useful information on our delivery of the
programme here in Christchurch and provide
insight into whether it has contributed to empathy
and attitudes towards disability.
Here’s a glimpse of some of the work we are
currently doing (and our students are doing) that
we think is exciting, 80 years on:
Over 2014 and 2015, the Canterbury West Coast
Disability Awareness and Education Team gained
funding from the Ministry of Social Development’s
Making a Difference Fund to run the It’s About
Ability programme, originally produced by UNICEF.
Over the 2014 and 2015 school years, we ran the
Students at Woolston School
learn to play Boccia
It’s About Ability focuses on Human Rights, the
United Nations Convention on the Rights of the
Child, and the United Nations Convention on the
Rights of Persons with Disabilities in informative
and interactive sessions. It’s About Ability is aimed
at 12-18 year olds and is easily adapted to different
learning levels and needs.
Year 7 & 8 students at Woolston School
16
Prudence Walker
Team Coordinator Disability Awareness & Education
TE HUNGA HAUĀ MAURI MŌ NGĀ TĀNGATA KĀTOA
It’s About Equality Rhyme for
the Massive Crew (rap)
It’s about ability, it’s about ability,
It’s about equality for you and me
We are not all the same,
And no one is to be blamed
Differences make the world go around,
Everywhere you go there are
different abilities to be found
Stereotyping, inhumane behaviour and abuse
Are things that we need to cut loose
Human rights from the United Nations,
Set the standard for treatment expectations
There is no shame in being yourself,
We need to take care of our mental health
So respect yourself and others too,
Love, laugh, share and care,
As we are all humans, me and you
The Best of Us
You who can do so much
And so little
Incredibly strong
And yet fragile
Beautiful though
Some people will stare
Your strengths are immense
But some won’t want you to share
I’ll be there for you,
Won’t you share your wisdom with me?
Thanks to who you are today
you can smile with ease
All because of those who were
there to help and understand
The thing everyone really needs
is a simple helping hand
The rap and poem were written and performed
by Year 8 students at Casebook Intermediate
Year 7 & 8 students at Diamond Harbour School with their programme certificates
Widening Horizons. Summer 2015-2016
17
Youth Opportunities - Makeover Day
Beauty caught in the eye of the camera
Once a year for the last five years, Faith at Natural Image Hair and Beauty has donated her time and staff to
providing an exclusive opportunity for our Youth Group attendees. The young ladies are given a professional
makeover, including hair styling.
We have also been fortunate to have professional photographers donate their time to give the ladies some
memorable photos of their day.
I am constantly overwhelmed by the transition from shy and nervous ladies when they first arrive, blossoming
into confident, self-assured ladies by the time they get in front of the camera. I am thankful to be part of this
extraordinary day.
Karen Whiting
Youth Opportunities
Lily
Wildbore
When I first walked into where we were getting our
makeovers done, I was scared. But soon I had one
person on my hair and another on my makeup.
By the time I was getting my photo taken I felt like
a star. It was great.
Thank you to everyone who helped with my
makeover.
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TE HUNGA HAUĀ MAURI MŌ NGĀ TĀNGATA KĀTOA
Gemma Stewart
When I found out about the makeovers, I was really
keen to go.
On the day, I felt excited. I’ve never had anything
like that done before.
Everything about the day was good. I really liked my
hair and makeup. It was lovely to be pampered. It
was cool to pose for a photo shoot, too.
I give the day a ‘2 thumbs up’.
Ellie Clifford
I was kind of looking forward to it and kind of
unsure.
When I got there I was a bit nervous, but straight
away the girls were fussing over me. I had my
makeup done first. It was a bit strange, as I don’t
wear makeup.
Then they did my hair and I could see a very big
change in my appearance. I couldn’t stop looking
at myself because I looked so beautiful.
I looked like a model in the magazines and felt
great!
Widening Horizons. Summer 2015-2016
19
Mentoring
Matching people with people
It is unbelievable to think that CCS Disability Action
is now 80 years old. How times have changed and
how far we have come!
It wasn’t that long ago that we hung on every word of
professionals and never for a minute doubted what
we were being told. We now take a very ‘personcentred’ approach and look at disabled people
as being their own expert around their disability
– quite capable of making decisions and living
the life they choose. Technology has had a huge
impact, with information being readily available
at our fingertips, and this has certainly put us in
a better position to make informed choices about
matters that affect our lives.
CCS Disability Action recognise that there are
still times when we all need advice and guidance
from others. Probably the most critical time is the
transition into adult life. A mentoring programme
was developed in 2006 for young people in the
13 to 24 age group with this in mind. You might
think that there are a lot of mentoring programmes
about, so what’s new? The fact that this was
a disabled person mentoring a disabled young
person was innovative and empowering and is still
working today.
Our mentors are not experts, but they have faced
life’s challenges head on despite their disability
and have learnt a lot along the way. They are a
diverse group of people who are good listeners and
passionate about making a difference for other
people. Mentors love to see people succeed and
develop new skills.
The most important component with any mentoring
is the matching process – there is no “one size fits
all” when it comes to linking people together. We
need to consider the goals of the young person,
the life experience of the mentor to support these
goals, mutual interests, personality type, location
etc.
We are currently on the lookout for new mentors to
work alongside young people who have been waiting
patiently on our list. We are particularly interested
in mentors who fit under the ASD umbrella, but
who have life experience under their belts that they
think would assist them to support others.
We ask for an 18-month commitment, where you
will make contact and meet with your young person
once a month and support them to reach goals that
they have identified or help them get some direction
in their lives. You will also be available to attend a
monthly peer supervision catch-up, where you will
be supported by other mentors. The commitment
per month is around three-to-four hours, for which
you will receive an honorarium.
If you think you have what it takes to become
a mentor, or want to know more about being
mentored, please contact Sally on (03) 741 3287
or email sally.thomas@ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz.
I look forward to hearing from you!
Sally Thomas
Service Coordinator/Transition
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TE HUNGA HAUĀ MAURI MŌ NGĀ TĀNGATA KĀTOA
Meet our mentors
Pete Noble
Rachel Mullins
Pete is a 20-year-old who is in his second year at
Lincoln University slogging towards a Bachelor of
Commerce degree. Pete enjoys university life and
is living in the Halls of Residence. His spare time
is spent socialising, playing pool, watching moves
(especially sci-fi) and he has a great voice, so is a
member of the university choir. Actually, he is a bit
of a muso – playing the clarinet – but isn’t utilising
this skill currently!
Rachel has been a mentor for CCS Disability
Action for a number of years and has lots of life
experience around living with a disability. Rachel
has a great outlook on life, a real “can-do” attitude
and a wonderful sense of humour.
Pete has a great sense of humour. He enjoys
meeting people and using his knowledge to help
others, which is why he is a great asset to the
International Students Association at Lincoln.
Rachel has cerebral palsy, uses a wheelchair for
mobility and attended mainstream schools. She
has held a number of jobs, including Disability
Awareness Coordinator at CCS Disability Action
some time ago, but is currently employed by
the Christchurch City Council as the Inclusive
Communities Coordinator, where she has been
working for six years.
Pete is still living with the side effects of a traumatic
brain injury he had in 2009 and really appreciates
the support that he receives from the Lincoln
Disability Resource Centre.
Rachel lives in her own place and has the renovation
bug at the moment! She has just updated her
bathroom and says that the kitchen is next on the
list.
Pete has recently become available to mentor
other young people and would like to use his life
experiences to assist others, particularly those who
may be considering further education and training.
Rachel loves getting out and about and travelling,
having recently come back from a trip to the USA.
She loves eating out, going to movies, catching up
with friends, shopping, reading, going to events
(concerts and shows) and is known to spend a bit
of time on Facebook!
If you would like to link with Pete or Rachel or
know more about the mentoring programme,
please give Sally a call on (03) 741 3287
Widening Horizons. Summer 2015-2016
Rachel enjoys supporting other disabled people to
reach their goals and aspirations and has a good
listening ear for any issues that people are facing
in their lives.
21
Going the Extra Mile
Wendy Coutts QSM
CCS Disability Action celebrates Wendy Coutts, who
was recently awarded the Queen’s Service Medal.
It is especially fitting that this recognition coincides
with our 80th anniversary year. In this article,
Wendy reflects on the QSM award, the need to be
an agent for social change and the importance of
volunteering.
“Receiving the award was exciting, but I didn’t
realise I knew so many people until 500 emails,
cards, flowers and baking flowed in.”
Wendy has juggled life’s challenges of family,
business and community involvement over 40
years. “For me, the Queen’s Service Medal was
like going the extra mile – a lot of people in our
organisation do it, but we don’t praise them enough,
both volunteers and staff”.
Wendy has a long history of volunteering, driven by
a passion to see equality in society. This passion for
equality was born out of being brought up in foster
care in an orphanage. “It cements your thinking – I
don’t want other people to be in this same world. I
always want to make better outcomes for all people.
People being treated differently brasses me off.
If more people gave back to the community we’d
have far less places like that. You do it because
you have a community spirit.” Wendy has been
instrumentally involved in Speedway motorsport,
Plunket, the Rape Crisis Team, Marlborough Netball
and Diabetes Marlborough.
She was shoulder-tapped to come on the
local governance committee of CCS Disability
Action Nelson Marlborough, which drew on her
professional finance and accountancy skills and
saw her quickly rise to become our organisation’s
National President for many years. Wendy still feels
the need to ensure that the inequalities of disability
are addressed and that the services we provide
are actually improving the lives of people with
disabilities. To achieve this, she fervently believes
consumer input is essential.
Membership is a big challenge facing organisations.
Wendy is keen for the next members and leaders
22
Wendy Coutts receiving her QSM from
Governor General, Sir Jerry Mateparae
of CCS Disability Action to include people receiving
its services, so that their voice is heard on delivery
of those services. She also views involvement as
important in terms of being part a movement.
“People may struggle to get their individual voice
out and to take a wider, holistic perspective, but
collectively membership is powerful for creating
social change.” Mindful of this need, in her
governance role Wendy tenaciously questions
herself and her fellow Committee members: “Will
the outcome we’re going to achieve also create
social change? I try to make the right decision.
Social change is just as important as the budget
dollar.”
Wendy knows volunteering comes with its own set
of challenges. To attract new volunteers, she talks
about big rewards as well. To start with, “Where
else can you learn budgeting, strategic planning,
communication – and all free for a little of your
time to help the community? You can then take
that and use it for your job and to make your life
and the lives of others better.”
We congratulate Wendy Coutts QSM. Generous
with her time, energy and skills, she models a
community-spirited attitude.
Pam Nicholls
Blenheim
TE HUNGA HAUĀ MAURI MŌ NGĀ TĀNGATA KĀTOA
Long serving staff member
Lyn Anthony
For 19 of my 21 years here, I was one of the
receptionists – or, as I like to call it, Managers of
First Impressions. First full time, then part time
when I moved into the fundraising role.
Over the 21 years I have seen many changes. Our
services moving from centre-based to community
and home based was a huge change. When I
started, many adults we supported attended the
Bishopdale Group and the preschoolers would come
into Kilmarnock Street to the Child Development
Centre, which was like an early childhood centre. I
had many visits from little ones coming for a smiley
face or buzzy bee stamp, a cuddle, jelly beans from
the jar or just to say ‘hello’.
In 2007 we rebranded to become CCS Disability
Action and in 2008 we moved in to Lichfield Street
– another big change.
The number of staff we employ has more than
doubled and we have good technology and
transport to support our work. Back in 1994, each
staff member had a message book at reception,
in which we wrote all their messages and phone
calls. On their return they would come to reception,
copy down all their messages, tick the book and
follow up. Oh, the beauty of mobile phones and an
efficient email system.
Two years ago, I decided it was time for a better
work/life balance and I now do fundraising for
40 weeks a year, with no reception work. I have
the school holidays off so I can be Granny for our
grandson who is now 12. Granny time is simply the
best.
I miss the people contact in my current role, but have
become used to it. After eight years of fundraising, I
still get excited when we receive a grant that I know
is going in some way to support the work we do as
an organisation.
I have made some great friends, learnt about
disability, had a lot of fun, done a lot of laughing,
had some fantastic staff functions and met or
spoken with a lot of people we support, members
and donors.
Many staff have come and gone over the years.
Why am I still here, you may ask? My answer is this:
I like what we do and who we do it for.
Lyn Anthony
Regional Fundraising Coordinator
Widening Horizons. Summer 2015-2016
23
Life Member of CCS Disability
Action Nelson Marlborough
David Clode
Elegant camellias and tulips flank David Clode's
van, parked at his door. He is at home in his hightech room. Taking time out from his computer, he
talks about his life and, in particular, his involvement
with CCS Disability Action.
David laughs – "It was from birth, really." He recounts
memories of the CCS kindergarten in Southland
and advocacy on his behalf in schools there.
Moving to Blenheim in 1992, David then worked
for the Blenheim Court House on a voluntary basis
for the next six years, before leaving for a two-year
stint at Laura Fergusson house to develop life skills
including budgeting and food choice, preparation
and hygiene. On his return to Blenheim, David
remembers participating in CCS independent living
skills courses: 6 weeks per year for two years.
is now the St John’s Ambulance building. These
rooms proved expensive, but David remembers how
they were refurbished by member volunteers – and
he also remembers the great social fish and chip
nights held there. CCS then moved to constricted
premises at 25 Alfred Street before its current
location opposite the Blenheim Railway Station.
These movements reflect the growth in awareness
of disability in society and a transition to more paid
staff and increased disability services.
David gained an Undergraduate Certificate in
History through Massey University and has a deep
love of the church, becoming a lay preacher. He
was instrumental in creating Joy Ministries within
St Andrew’s Church, providing services for many
people including those living with disabilities.
David uses his computer daily for study and
communication.
There is one more quirky thing we might not know
about him – that he is a certified HAM Radio
operator. Every week or so, he transcends the
crackle and seeks out the voices of friends he
has been conferring with over the years. David
exemplifies someone who has seized the day
and made the best of the technological advances
available to him. He has not let cerebral palsy stop
him from pursuing his interests.
David was elected on to the Local Executive/
Advisory Committee immediately on his return to
Blenheim and has served as Chair or Vice Chair in
most years since. Reflecting on the achievements
of the Committee during his time, he describes
the growth of CCS from having a sole Field Worker
and Administrator, Dawn Neal, who operated in the
community from out of her home, to the corporate
presence it now has.
Vera Story joined Dawn in the earlier years and CCS
moved into premises in Seymour Street, near what
24
Would his father, Brian, be coming with David to
CCS Disability Action’s 80th celebrations? His
father’s answer was characteristic of the attitude
that has allowed David to flourish. Brian explained
that involvement with the governance of CCS
Disability Action is “David's thing, just as the church
is”. David would arrive independently and take his
place in the celebrations. Brian is supportive of
David and respects the choices he makes as to
what he does in his life.
In our 80th celebration year, David was presented
with a Life Membership of CCS Disability Action
Nelson Marlborough Branch in recognition of his
service to the organisation. We celebrate the fact
that David's life and work have paved the way
forward for many others living with disability.
Pam Nicholls
Blenheim
TE HUNGA HAUĀ MAURI MŌ NGĀ TĀNGATA KĀTOA
Around the region
Lily at her kindy Wheels Day with the Piston
Cup car that dad made for her, so she could
participate in the day with the other children
The mural unveiled on
3rd December 2015 on
Antigua Street by the Hon
Nicky Wagner, Minister
for Disability Issues, in
celebration of International
Day of Persons with
Disabilities 2015.
This mural was created by
Karl Rolling-Sun and an
amazing group of young
people of all abilities to
highlight the importance of
a Christchurch for Every
Body.
Our message for this
event was:
“Inclusion Matters:
Access for all in
Christchurch”
Widening Horizons. Summer 2015-2016
25
Many thanks!
Gabrielle Jensen, aged two, from Westport,
enjoying her new iPad mini purchased
with funding from the HE Fairey Trust to
support her language and motor skills
Third time lucky
Nick’s 1995 Nissan was on its last legs. Every time
he went for a Warrant of Fitness, there was a list of
faults which had to be fixed.
Nick and his CCS Disability Action Service
Coordinator applied for a replacement twice,
unsuccessfully. Finally, on the third attempt, they
struck the jackpot.
This shiny, low mileage 2010 Toyota now has a very
proud new owner. The faithful old Nissan has finally
been replaced and Nick is still independent.
26
TE HUNGA HAUĀ MAURI MŌ NGĀ TĀNGATA KĀTOA
Introducing
National Certificates
completed
Jonathan Mackie
Cheryl Murney and Andrea Hurst — Timaru — Level 2
Christchurch
Originally from Manchester, England, I spent most
of my early years living in Wales, Australia and the
North Island. I have now set roots in Christchurch
and have been working at CCS Disability Action for
the last nine years.
Originally coming to the organisation as an
Employment Consultant, I went on to become a
Transition Coordinator, working with teenagers
about to leave school, and leading the mentoring
programme. Then then seven years ago I became
Team Leader for the Adult Services Team.
I am now Team Leader for the Family and Youth
Team. This, with my previous fifteen years’
experience working with in the disability sector for
organisations including IDEA Services, Workbridge
and Northable (Northland NASC), has equipped
me to lead our fantastic Service Coordinators,
who support the families and individuals we work
alongside.
One of the biggest influences in my career choice
was my older sister, Ruth, who died weeks before I
was born, when she was eight years old. Ruth had
Down syndrome and spina bifida. Growing up with
the many stories my parents shared had a large
impact on my profession.
My greatest enjoyment in life is my family: my wife
Jacque, our son Sebastien, who is three and keeps
me very active, and our new freshly-born daughter,
Emersen, who gives me lots of smiles and laughs.
This is very closely followed by my other passions:
motorcycling and collecting vinyl.
Cheryl Murney and Andrea Hurst with their certificates
Geoff Hughes — Blenheim — Level 2
Geoff receives his certificate from Paula Cohen
Wendy Greig— Blenheim — Level 3
Wendy with her certificate
Widening Horizons. Summer 2015-2016
27
NZ Registered Magazine
If undelivered, please return to CCS Disability Action
PO Box 1506, CHRISTCHURCH 8140
Your Local
CCS Disability
Action Offices:
Kaikoura
114 Beach Road
PO Box 75
Kaikoura 7300
Ph. (03) 319 3263
Hokitika
51 Tancred Street
PO Box 3
Hokitika 7842
Ph. (03) 755 5329
Nelson
65 Trafalgar Street
PO Box 586
Nelson 7040
Ph. (03) 548 4479
Westport
Clocktower Building
Palmerston Street
PO Box 112
Westport 7866
Ph. (03) 789 6833
Rangiora
78A East Belt
PO Box 594
Rangiora 7440
Ph. (03) 313 8312
Blenheim
9 Sinclair Street
PO Box 533
Blenheim 7240
Ph. (03) 578 1170
Greymouth
25 Albert Street
Greymouth 7805
Ph. (03) 768 4675
Ashburton
Office 3
2nd Floor
161 Burnett Street
Ashburton 7700
Ph. (03) 308 4456
Timaru
2-4 Victoria Street
PO Box 585
Timaru 7940
Ph. (03) 684 7151
Christchurch
224 Lichfield Street
PO Box 1506
Christchurch 8140
Ph. (03) 365 5661
or Ph.
0800 227 2255
Contributions
We welcome contributions, comments and letters. Please email to: wideninghorizons.canterbury@ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz
Editing Team:
Janine Richards
Carmen Curtis
Julie Adam
Printer:
Wickcliffe NZ Ltd
Please note the views, findings, opinions, conclusions or recommendations conveyed
in this publication are not necessarily those of CCS Disability Action.
P rincipal S upporter
If you would prefer an electronic version of this magazine please go to our website
http://uppersouth.ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz
or email us at: wideninghorizons.canterbury@ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz
28
TE HUNGA HAUĀ MAURI MŌ NGĀ TĀNGATA KĀTOA