COSS NEWS BULLETIN



COSS NEWSApril / Paenga Whawha 2015COSS News is published by The Council of Social Services in Christchurch with the generous support of the Canterbury Community Trust, the Lottery Grants Board and the Christchurch City Council.Welcome to the April / Paenga Whawha COSS newsletter. If you have an item that you would like to see in the April newsletter, please email it to newsletter@.nz . The deadline is Friday 24 April 2015. COSS COMMENTThings have been humming in the COSS office this month as we respond to requests for copies of our book Holding Hope Together, and get to grips with the draft Christchurch City Council Long Term Plan (LTP). The LTP sets out the Council’s direction and budgets for the next ten years, and is reviewed and updated every three years. The challenges that it faces in this LTP are the subject of a lot of public discussion, as the Council wrestles with how to pay for the rebuild and meet its obligations under the cost-sharing agreement with government; while still delivering its services and building long-term resilience. Much of this is discussed in the widely-circulated Consultation Document, where there are lots of things to get to grips with. However it’s the draft LTP itself that gives the finer detail of proposals in each area, and we took a look in there at the budget for the Strengthening Communities grant fund. The fund was massively cut by nearly 28% in 2014 (from $7.89m to $5.69m), so we’re very pleased to see a proposed increase back up to $7.2m for the coming year. This fund is extremely important for the non-profit sector and we need its support as we continue to take a vital role in rebuilding communities and supporting residents. All the information about disaster recovery tells us that we will be dealing with the fallout for several years yet, and our sector will continue to deal with increased and more complex demand from vulnerable people and communities. That is why COSS is concerned to see the proposal to cut the fund by 2% per year for each of the next three years. We do appreciate the near-impossible task that Council faces in trying to address competing demands and produce a balanced budget. The 2% cuts have been applied widely across all aspects of activity covered by the LTP. It’s important though that their decisions are fair. So we were taken aback to see in the very next section of the grants budget that Canterbury Development Corporation and Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism were not being asked to share the pain of the cuts and in fact were budgeted to receive consumer price index increases over the life of the LTP. COSS attended Council’s Mayor in the Chair initiative to argue that this inequitable treatment sends a message that the sector is not valued and that the cuts should be withdrawn. This got some media coverage – you can see the Press story at . We also raised concerns at the lack of information about when this year’s grant application process will open. As we told the Council, groups need to be able to plan if grant distribution is delayed. We really appreciate the support we got in the form of messages and people coming along to the meeting at short notice. Thank you to everyone who responded, and to the others who took the opportunity to also speak at the meeting. Council undertook to get back to us soon with more information about the timeline for this year’s grants. Our warm thanks to the Councillors who heard us respectfully and responded to our concerns. The next step is to make a formal submission to the LTP. We do hope that you will do one too. More information about how is in our “Have Your Say” section inside. Have a great Easter everyone,SharonClare and her colleagues have gone to the back page this month, as they take time out of the office to mark a special date.Mayor congratulates COSS for “great book”Speech of Mayor Lianne Dalziel at the launch of ‘Holding Hope Together’ on 20 February 2015.Kia ora koutou katoa. It is nice to be back at Christchurch Community House – I was here only two weeks ago to officially open this facility. In that ceremony I thanked all Community House members and volunteers for continuing their important work serving the community under the difficult conditions we have endured since the Canterbury earthquake sequence. I’d like to repeat that sentiment again today, as we celebrate the launch of ‘Holding Hope Together’. I have enjoyed a sneak preview of the book and it’s great. The 13 stories are told in a personal and pragmatic style, and draw the reader in with their compelling content. Having an official record of the extraordinary events our city’s not-for-profits endured after the quakes is invaluable, and I congratulate the book’s producers for their foresight. Holding Hope Together highlights both the wonderful things these community groups achieved post-quakes, and the contribution this sector makes to healthy, resilient communities. As the Rev. Maurice Gray says in the book’s foreword, those working on the front line of our NGO sector deserve acknowledgement for their efforts. He said this: “The interviewees for this book were leaders of their respective organisations. Leadership is a fundamental value that people look for in times of trauma and chaos. It was very evident that the leaders stood tall during these difficult times. They inspired others and led by example thereby ensuring their organisations were able to respond to those in need during their most critical and vulnerable times.” No matter how much staff and volunteers were personally affected by the quakes, their call to service remained strong. Holding Hope Together recognises some of this tremendous work, and will be a great resource in the future, both for the sector and the wider public. I want to make sure that it is part of the Christchurch contribution to the Sendai UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction. I want to acknowledge the large team of staff and volunteers that produced the book. The transcribers; the photographer; the producers and those responsible for layout and editing. I note that Sharon Torstonson says that the Council of Social Services managed to produce this book “in spite of not having a clue how to do it” – so a special congratulations to COSS for your achievement. It is poignant the book is being launched just two days before the anniversary of the February 22 quake. Four years on, I believe our city has turned a corner in its recovery, but for many there is still a long way to go. These next two years are going to be particularly challenging for many, so if we maintain the unity and generosity that got us through those days - literally Holding Hope Together – then we will be assured of success. Congratulations not just for the book, but for the spirit that inspired the stories it tells. No reira, tena koutou, tena koutou, tena koutou katoa Thank you everyone!Our enormous thanks to everyone who helped make the launch such a success. We had the most delicious nibbles afterwards and we’d especially like to thank the businesses who donated a platter of food:Nibbly Bits, ph 021 480 569, nibblybits.co.nz Bunrunners Catering and Café, cnr Tuam St & Fitzgerald Ave, ph 374 2260; bunrunners.co.nzMediterranean Food Company caffe and pizzeria, 322 Tuam St, ph 379 5122, mediterraneanfoods.co.nzWe’d also like to thank board member Helen Gatonyi, who organised the catering and contributed to it herself. Copies of Holding Hope Together are available from the COSS office for a koha – preferably around $10 to cover production costs, but if you want to give more we won’t object! Order by emailing sharon@.nz If you’d like a copy but cost is a barrier, please contact the office.A Mountain All Can ClimbThe Social Policy & Parliamentary Unit of the Salvation Army recently released A Mountain All Can Climb, its latest State of the Nation report. The report aims to give a picture of how well we are addressing various social issues in New Zealand. It does this by examining and discussing a number of indicators under five broad topics: Our Children; Crime & Punishment; Work & Incomes; Social Hazards; and Housing. By following each indicator from year to year, each successive report builds on the previous ones to give a picture of whether progress is being made in each field. Our Children: The Salvation Army reports the good news of teenage pregnancy rates dropping, the number of substantiated cases of child abuse and neglect dropping, and a slight decline in the percentage of children living in benefit-dependent households. However the number of offences against children for violence, mistreatment or neglect has increased, as has infant mortality.Crime & Punishment: All good news here, as the percentage of recorded crime, number of prisoners and rates of recidivism have all dropped. Work & Incomes: Once again, things are looking positive. The number of jobs within the economy and the average wage have both increased, while unemployment has dropped, as has the number of food parcels distributed by the Salvation Army annually.Social Hazards: Availability of alcohol, the number of drug-related offences, and the amount per capita spent on gambling have all dropped.Housing: It was bad news in this field. As we are very aware in Christchurch, housing availability and housing affordability have both worsened.However it’s important not to take the above results as the full story. The discussion in the report notes a number of ambiguities in how the data for the indicators is gathered, and confusion between different sets of data. The Salvation Army encourages us to look at how they’ve interpreted the information and carried out their analysis, and to engage in the debate. The report can be downloaded at .nz/socialpolicy Have you heard of Aphasia?Imagine going to sleep tonight and waking up in a foreign country where you don’t speak the language. It’s hard to:Speak – ask for something in a shop, and ask for directions to get somewhereUnderstand what is being spoken to youUnderstand what you are reading on street signs Write – fill out forms, or write a note to someone Use numbers – work out how much money you need to buy something, and use the ATMThis is what it is like to have aphasia.Aphasia – pronounced ‘aye – faze – yuh’ affects a person’s ability to communicate. Aphasia affects speaking, reading, writing, understanding conversation, and using numbers. The most common cause of aphasia is stroke. Every day in New Zealand, around 24 people have a stroke and 6 or 7 will acquire aphasia. There are at least 17,000 people in New Zealand with stroke-acquired aphasia. Aphasia can also be acquired after a brain injury or brain tumour. Aphasia is more common than Parkinson’s disease. Aphasia can be hardly noticeable or very severe but it affects families and communities as well as the individual.The Christchurch Aphasia Support Group meets at the Papanui RSA on Monday mornings. Anyone with aphasia is welcome to attend.AphasiaNZ is holding a mini-conference and workshops in Christchurch for people affected by aphasia, and health professionals working with people with stroke and aphasia, on the 23rd and 24th of April. Dr. Carole Pound, an internationally renowned aphasia expert, is facilitating the workshops at the Quality Hotel Elms on Papanui Road. For more information about the workshops, please visit the web page: For information about support group meetings at the Papanui RSA, please go to the AphasiaNZ website: To find out more about aphasia and the AphasiaNZ Charitable Trust, you can email info@.nz or go to .nz or call us on our free phone on 0508 274274. HAVE YOUR SAYCOSS alerts readers to consultation processes or lobbying initiatives that we think are of particular relevance to the social services sector or to non-profit organisations. However you can keep an eye out for issues of importance to you or your organisation by regularly visiting the following websites:Christchurch City Council consultations: government consultations: Environment Canterbury Long Term PlanConsultation on Environment Canterbury’s proposed work programme for the next ten years is open until April 13 and you are invited to make a submission. The proposed work programme supports our Long-Term Plan 2015-25.You can make a submission at t.nz/plans, where you can find out about the proposals and use the online submission form. Alternatively, you can use the printed form in the back of the Consultation Document, which is being delivered to every household in Canterbury. Further copies are available by phoning 0800 324 636.__________________________Christchurch City Council Long Term Plan Submissions close on Tues 28th April and public hearings will be held in May 2015. The plan includes the city strategy to meet an estimated $1.2 billion shortfall. To view the documents go to the Council website and click on the Long Term Plan link: t.nz______________________Disabled Persons Assembly – Christchurch & DistrictsBus Stop Guidelines Forum2pm – 4pm, 1st May 2015Christchurch Community House, 301 Tuam Street.Luke Morley (Passenger Transport Engineer for Christchurch City Council) and Shannon Boorer (Senior Strategy Advisor for Environment Canterbury) will talk about the upcoming review of the local Bus Stop Guidelines and they would welcome your valuable feedback.We encourage you to come and participate in the discussions and give them feedback about accessibility that affects you and the disabled community.Hearing Loop and NZSL interpreters provided. For catering and seating arrangements, it would be much appreciated if you could let us know how many will be attending and if you are a wheelchair user. RSVP by 5pm Wednesday 29th April 2015 to dpachch@cyberxpress.co.nz , 022-155-6696 (text only); ph 379-8525; Fax 366-8535Car parking is available on the corner of Barbadoes and Tuam Street for $3. Gold coins necessary to pay the parking machine. There is no parking on site.For more information, please contact:Karim Baradi (DPA Christchurch Co-ordinator): dpachch@cyberxpress.co.nz , ph 379-8525.Shannon Boorer (ECan): shannon.boorer@t.nz , ph 365-3828. _________________________Proposed Canterbury Air Plan - call for submissionsThe proposed Air Plan is the culmination of a long-term process to work with the community on an effective strategy to meet the national environmental standards and ensure everyone has cleaner, healthier air to breathe.What issues does the proposed plan Air Plan cover?The proposed Air Plan covers five key areas: Home heating in urban areasOutdoor burningDustOdourIndustry and large scale operators How you can have your sayFormal submissions on the proposed Air Plan are now being invited and these need to be made to Environment Canterbury by 1 May plete copies of the proposed Air Plan will be available at Environment Canterbury’s Christchurch, Timaru and Kaikoura offices, public libraries and at t.nz/airplan where online submissions can also be made, or by contacting Customer Services on 0800 329 munity drop in sessions will be held in Christchurch, Timaru, Ashburton, Geraldine and Waimate in mid-late March and these will be promoted in local papers. If you would like to speak to someone about the proposed Air Plan in the meantime please contact Carmel Rowlands on 0800 324 636 or 027 703 1481.Christchurch City Council website upgradeThe Council website is being upgraded! To make sure we do it right and create the best website possible, we need your input.Please take a moment to complete the surveys on . Your feedback will help us enhance our online customer experience by building a modern structure that is quick and easy to use.There will be more surveys and ways to be involved as the project progresses.You can also read more about the project at? . If you have any questions, please email webupgrade@t.nzNON-PROFIT SECTOR NEWS & NOTICESCommunity Service Awards 2015The community boards of Christchurch City are currently seeking nominations for the 2015 Community Service Awards. Nominations close at 5pm on Friday 10 April munity Service Awards are given to individuals and groups in recognition of significant voluntary service.The Council is encouraging community organisations, clubs and societies to think about the people they treasure and put their names forward.Further information and nomination forms are available on the website: Recognition AwardsVolunteer Recognition Awards have been presented by Volunteering Canterbury to outstanding local volunteers for the past 25 years.Do you know someone who deserves an Award?Nominations can be made by any not-for-profit organisation or project. A nomination form can be downloaded from .nz. Nominations close 14 May and Awards will be presented on Tuesday 23 June, during National Volunteer Week.RESOURCES FOR YOU, YOUR COMMUNITY OR YOUR CLIENTSToolbox Parenting Course – “Building Awesome WhānauThis six session course is packed full of ideas, positive stories from parents still on the journey with their own tamariki and useful resources to help you build a great future for your whānau. The activities in this course cover tamariki aged 0–12 years.? The usual price of a Toolbox course is $75.00 per person, but this Toolbox is offered free because of the availability of local funding.? A koha towards hosting costs would be gratefully accepted.Tuesday 21 April – Tuesday 26th May 2015, 11:00 am – 1.00pm, Te Mapua Whare, 389 Linwood Avenue, Linwood.To register or for more information contact: Kirsten Wyllie ph 03 355 2680 or email canterbury@ _________________________Bereaved by Suicide? WAVES - A Bereaved by Suicide Group This grief education programme is for adults 17 + who have been affected by the suicide of someone they know. The group allows members to share their thoughts and feelings around what’s happened discuss the nature of suicide gain information and ideas about how to care for themselves and others, including children and young people, after a suicide The group of 6—8 people is facilitated by professional counsellors and educators and runs over 8 weeks. The date may need to be changed if there is an insufficient number of participants registered for the group. When: Monday nights; Stats 27th April, 7-9pmWhere: The Well Church office 1/330 Colombo Street (above Subway)Cost: Koha/DonationContact: 366 9284 or 0800 876 682 christchurchwaves@________________________Men Building Stronger RelationshipsThis group is for men who want to build stronger relationships with partners, family, or friends. You will have opportunities to learn to deal with conflict better, communicate more effectively, gain greater understanding of yourself, and bring new life to the way you relate to others. We will use a range of action methods and group discussion.When: Eight Monday nights, 4 May, – 22nd June, 2015, 6.30 – 9.00pm (please arrive at 6.15 for a 6.30 start) Where: Avebury House, 9 Eveleyn Couzins Ave, Richmond, ChchCost: $60 –unwaged or low income,? $120 –wagedTo enrol and for further information contact:Marcel - Phone / Txt 0274774439 or email marcel50@xtra.co.nz?Simon - Phone/Txt 0272767612 or email simon@Limited spaces available Workshop LeadersMarcel van der Weerden has worked as a counsellor, residential care worker, and group worker over the last twenty five years. He has a particular interest in working with men and currently works as a counsellor at START. Marcel is an advanced psychodrama trainee with the CITP.Simon Gurnsey is a Sociometrist with 25 years experience in the psychodrama method. He has been involved with men’s groups for many years. He works for a number of agencies associated with the community led recovery of Christchurch.______________________________Career Force Expo9 April, any time between 12 noon & 3pm, At Rydges Latimer. New resources and details about programmes including how to enrol for NZ Certificates in cleaning, health and wellbeing, and youth work. For more information and to rsvp: nzqualification..nz/nz-qualification-regional-exos/_________________________Fair Trading Act – changes came into effect on 17 MarchThe Commerce Commission will be targeting historically problematic industries, including low-tier finance lenders that can be harsh on vulnerable consumers. For more information about the changes and new protections: Earthquake Counselling Sessions Petersgate Counselling Centre is thrilled to advise you that we are able to accept new clients for fully subsidised Earthquake Counselling sessions. The confirmation of further funding from the Catholic Diocese of Christchurch and the Ministry of Social Development via their contract with Relationships Aotearoa has made it possible for Petersgate to continue to provide free Earthquake Counselling. We’re tremendously grateful to these organisations for their support and for the good relationship we enjoy with them. We've all read reports that state that the continuing disruption and associated impacts on wellbeing following a natural disaster of the kind experienced in Christchurch are expected to be part of our lives for the next three years or more, and that some residual needs are likely to remain for many more years. The Earthquake Counselling interventions provided by our highly trained and experienced team of counsellors assist individuals, couples and families to better deal with the challenges they face because of the earthquakes and their multifarious after-effects. People interested in accessing this service can self-refer for an assessment or be referred by a medical practice, government department, or community agency. Please note that these fully subsidised Earthquake Counselling sessions are available only while funding is in place and that clients need to meet the funders’ criteria to qualify. For more information email Petersgate’s Director Geoff King at director@.nz or call (03) 343-3391. __________________________The New Zealand Dyslexia HandbookThis is an up-to-date resource written with the aim of improving the literacy of dyslexic students. The authors are experienced university teachers and researchers with expertise in literacy. Order at Week 2015 – expressions of interestNeighbourhood Trust is calling for expressions of interest and can help promote your event or activity for 24 – 30 August 2015. Programme to be finalised early April 2015. For a registration form contact Ginny Larsen ginny@.nz> phone 355 6522 ext 113, or 027 746 5168. More info at .nz__________________________Alzheimers Society Community Education seminar SeriesFree education sessions focused on families caring for someone with dementia. All seminars are held in our Meeting Room or the Hall at 314 Worcester Street, Linwood. Please contact the office to register.Morning Seminars – 10.30 am – 12 noon:? Dementia and Sexuality – Tuesday 21 April? Behaviours and Dementia – Tuesday 19 May? Legal Issues – Tuesday 16 June? Dementia and Communication – Tuesday 21 July? Dementia and Medications – Tuesday 18 August (TBC)? Advanced Care Planning – Friday 4 September? Keeping Active with Dementia – Tuesday 20 October? Dementia: Changes and Loss – Monday 16 November? Dementia: Caring and Stress – Tuesday 8 DecemberEvening Seminars – 7.30 pm – 9.00 pm:? For Adult Children of People with Dementia – Wednesday 20 May? Behaviours and Dementia – Wednesday 25 November? For Adult Children of People with Dementia – Wednesday 28 October__________________________Psychodrama WorkshopWith Ali Watersong and Craig Whisker (Certificated Psychodramatists, AANZPA)17-19 April 2015You are invited to join this unique personal development workshop being held at Castle Hill in the Canterbury High Country. The workshop uses the psychodrama method to promote and expand creativity and spontaneity in all aspects of life, including personal, global and spiritual issues. During the workshop you can expect to enhance or regenerate life by developing new responses in your relationship with yourself, your family, friends, workplace or community.Cost & Catering:?? $395 - $455 incl. GST (includes workshop, accommodation and meals). The workshop is fully catered from Saturday morning breakfast through to afternoon tea on Sunday. Please organise your own dinner on Friday night. Schedule: 7.00pm on Friday 17 April - 4.30pm on Sunday 19th?April. You are welcome to arrive at the venue any time after 5pm on Friday evening.About the Leaders:Ali Watersong?is a certificated psychodramatist and experienced counsellor in Otautahi / Christchurch. She has led numerous personal growth groups during the past 25 years and delights in using the psychodrama method to assist people to create the lives they want.Craig Whisker?lives and works on the Kapiti Coast as a family therapist in private practice and travels throughout NZ to conduct?family therapy training workshops. During the past 10 years he has regularly led personal development groups in Kapiti and in Singapore.Your Investment: $395 - $455 incl. GST (on a sliding scale according to means)Payment by internet banking or cheque. Further details from Ali. A minimum deposit of?$100?will hold your enrolment and full payment is required by?10 April 2015. Payment by instalments is welcome. Contact Ali to organise this.Registrations are only confirmed when you have received written confirmation from the organisers. Some dialogue between registrants and organisers may be required before confirmation is possible. Send registrations to:?Castle Hill Psychodrama Workshop, 13 Brenchley Road, Lyttelton 8082?(or by email to either address below).Enquiries to: Ali, ph 03 328 7105 / 027 276 5992, email watersong@slingshot.co.nzCraig, ph 04 905 1161 / 021 213 9921, email craigwhisker@.nz ________________________________Treaty of Waitangi Questions &?Answers 2015In 1989 Network Waitangi published a Questions & Answers book about the Treaty of Waitangi. The book has been continually revised, most recently in 2015. The on-line 2015 version can be downloaded at and will soon be available on our Network Waitangi Otautahi (NWO) website .nz.?We are pleased to announce that high resolution, hard copies are available for $5 + p&p.?To arrange purchase, preferably send an email to organisers@.nz - or you can phone 365 5266. They may be collected by arrangement with us (NWO) from Christchurch Community House, 301 Tuam St.?Please note that NWO?makes resources available on the basis that permission is given for them to be copied, distributed or transmitted, providing they are properly attributed, not altered in any way, and not sold for profit.___________________In the KnowA website to get information and answers to your questions about the Canterbury residential and repair process. Community representatives and recovery agencies provide answers to residents’ questions: .nz RESOURCES FOR YOUR ORGANISATION OR GROUPCommunity ProfilesThe Community Support Unit created community profiles of ward areas and different metropolitan groups in Christchurch in August/September 2011 in order to develop better understandings of the city’s population.The profiles build a detailed picture of what Christchurch communities went through pre and post-quake and are helping determine what needs to be done going forward to build resilience and strengthen functionality across our communities. They include core demographics, analyse community infrastructure, identify pre and post earthquake issues and map community resilience.Forty-seven zones across the eight Christchurch Community Board wards and four city-wide sector groups were documented and mapped, with all this information now available to the public.This information will be a helpful resource to aid public and community decision makers plan and prioritise local issues.The 2014 profiles are a record of the community at the point in time they were compiled (November 2014), so some information may now be outdated.? The 2014 profiles comprise six sections:Locality:?a map and geographic description that includes major built or natural features in the area.Key Demographics: graphed facts and trends about residents and householders in the area from the latest munity Infrastructure Mapping: illustrations of the types of support provided by local community sector munity Resilience Mapping:?a diagram that rates resilience or strength with indicators: community support, volunteering, connectedness, participation and munity Environments:?a summary of the social, economic, built, and natural environments.Key Issues Identified:?a discussion starter list of identified issues for future work.You can download the profiles from ________________________Office space available.Rooms will soon be available at the Men’s Support Hub at 357 Gloucester St. Current Tenants: Canterbury Men’s Centre (reception), Alcoholics Anonymous, Father and Child Trust. The Hepatitis C Resource Centre is the group that is leaving to take up other offices (please feel comfortable contacting them as a reference).Space(s) Available: The space(s) include two separate rooms 3m by 3m and 2.5m by 5.5m as well as a deck 2.5 by 5.5.Facilities: shared kitchen, bathroom/toilet on top and bottom floor, double garage that is being renovated to use as a group space, alarms and cleaning. Three interview rooms. Greenhouse out back and backyard.Cost: $1,593.45 per month (no GST paid on this) plus $130.43 (in GST) monthly for cleaning/ power/alarms and basic kitchen/cleaning/operating supplies).Availability: 1st May, with sublease being signed yearly. This building has been given a permit for temporary usage by the CCC. We have had some indication that this would likely be the case until 2020.Ideal Tenant:? A community group with 2-4 workers that is working with a range of men. Female clients often use the Men’s Support Hub and there are a number of women workers/volunteers based here.Please get in touch if you have any interest in seeing the rooms.Donald Pettitt,ManagerCanterbury Men's Centre357 Gloucester St, Christchurch, 8011021 02502631,??03 365 9000__________________________Guidelines for people working with childrenSupporting the Government’s Children’s Action plan, Social Development Minister Hon Anne Tolley recently launched new guidelines for people working with children.? Safer Recruitment, Safer Children will help organisations select safe people to work with children. Safer Organisations, Safer Children is a set of good practice advice to help organisations develop high quality child protection policies, which are now required in law for many organisations that work with children.You can find Safer Recruitment, Safer Children and Safer Organisations, Safer Children plus more information about them on the Children’s Action Plan website: __________________________NGO Advocacy and ContractsThe Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment has amended their Outcome Agreement Guide for government agencies undertaking contracts – the role of advocacy is recognised as a core function of many NGOs and guidance is given on managing good no surprises communication between contract parties. The guide can be viewed at: Relations Act 2000 – Changes from 6 March 2015Six main areas are affected: flexible working arrangements; rest and meal breaks; continuity of employment conditions (when employers change); good faith (informing employees when jobs are at risk); collective bargaining; and the Employment Relations Authority. More information is available at: Recognition toolThe start of a new year is often a time when we think about what we may want to achieve in the coming 12 months. ?Spotlight is a skills recognition tool which helps job-holders and managers alike with issues such as checking the accuracy of job descriptions, performance appraisal, improving your CV and staff development. ?Check it out at? – an essential supportYour wellbeing and your work in the community can be supported with good regular supervision. Find out about what supervision is and isn’t, and find the right supervisor for you at .nz _________________________The State of the Nation - Child Poverty in NZ 2014A summary essay of Professor Innes Asher's address to the Paediatric Society of New Zealand’s Annual Scientific Meeting?in November 2014.?The essay can be downloaded at Waste ExchangeThe Waste Exchange (Nothrow) is a free online tool which matches businesses who have unwanted by-products, surpluses and resources to donate, with community organisations and schools who have a use for them. ?Check it out at? Poverty MonitorOn the 2nd of December 2014 the?latest Child Poverty Monitor Report was released. This report tracks progress on NZ child poverty rates, using data from the University of Otago and the Ministry of Social Development. The number of children living in poverty is still unacceptably high at? 260,000 (24% of children) and an astounding 180,000 kiwi kids regularly go without the things they need.Child Poverty Action Group?calls on the government to lead a cross-party agreement on an action plan to reduce child poverty, including:Treating all low-income children equally.Improving incomes significantly for low income families and access to affordable housing and healthcare for all childrenEnsuring an accelerated rate of poverty reduction for M?ori and Pasifika, so they achieve equity with other childrenIntroducing child poverty legislation to ensure proper, regular measurement of child poverty on a range of measures. In addition, targets and timelines for child poverty reduction should be set with annual reporting to Parliament on progress towards these targets by the responsible Minister.See the report at _________________________Red Cross Door Knock summary As part of the Outreach Project, Red Cross proposes to compile a summary of door knocking activity every two months, to keep community informed. Please contact us if you wish us to forward a copy of the first summary for 2015. If there are any additions, or if you are aware of any further planned activity, please contact Jude Archer Jude.Archer@.nz . The creation of a website/database to hold outreach data, maps and summaries is underway, and Red Cross looks forward to making this available to all groups early this year.__________________________2014 Quality of Life SurveyThe six cities report comparing Christchurch with other QoL cities is available on the Quality of Life website at t.nz . Reports on each of the participating council areas will be uploaded to the site as they become available.________________________Annual Update of Key Results 2013/14: New Zealand Health SurveyThis report provides a snapshot of the health of New Zealanders through the publication of 48 key indicators on health behaviours, health status and access to health care for both adults and children.The report presents the 2013/14 results from the continuous New Zealand Health Survey, with comparisons to the 2012/13 and 2006/07 surveys.You can download the report and data tables from the Downloads section at . Results are available by sex, age group, ethnic group and neighbourhood deprivation.District health board results for 2011–14 will be available in early 2015 in a separate report.If you have any queries please email hdi@t.nz_______________________NZ Trustees Assn Subsidised Annual Review of Small-to-Medium Entities Financial Accounts Through the charitable purposes of NZTA we offer a 50% subsidised Annual Financial Accounts review service for organisations registered with DIA Charities Services. This fully on-line service starts from $350 inclusive and is tailored for small to medium charities where you have opted for a review over an audit of your Financial Accounts.? Contact NZTA for further information: office@.nz, Freephone: 0800 48 48 50_______________________NZ Navigator Phase 2A self assessment tool for organisations that can now be used for multiple participant assessments and has branch assessment modules. Any organisation can access these by registering details at .nz and for questions go to info@.nzFORUMS / EVENTS / TRAINING / DEVELOPMENTDignity 2015 - Response Based Practice International Conference, Aotearoa8 – 11 April 2015, Hawkes BayResponse-Based Practice is an approach that aims to provide and promote socially just and effective responses to violence and other forms of oppression and adversity.The 'Dignity 2015' Conference presents international experts from diverse disciplines who work from a Response Based perspective along with a strong New Zealand contingent.Go to dignity2015.co.nz to register and for more information. Early Registration is strongly advised - don’t miss out._______________________________NGO Health and Disability Network ‘Good Governance’ workshop.Date and Time: Saturday 11th April 2015, from 9am to 4.30pmLocation: Christchurch Community House (301 Tuam Street)The ‘Good Governance’ workshop is free for non-profit health and disability providers, as part of the NGO Council’s strategy to improve sector capability. Places at each workshop are limited to 30, but a waiting list will be established if the workshop is oversubscribed.Register online at for up to 3 board members per NGO.The Good Governance workshop will help your volunteer Board members to increase their understanding of ‘good governance’ for not-for-profit organisations and evaluate the effectiveness of your ics covered include:Governance and management definedBoard members – roles, rights and responsibilitiesKey functions of the BoardHow Boards can add valueChallenges, pitfalls and dilemmas for BoardsBoard – staff relationsContact the NGO Health and Disability Network for dates and details on these workshops (secretariatngo@)._____________________________Supervision for Supervisors – Course 1Margaret Morrell, Vibrant TrainingChristchurch, 13 – 15 April 2015This course provides everything both new and experienced supervisors need to know to provide excellent supervision. We together answer the question “What am I supposed to actually DO when I’m supervising?”Cost: $675, includes morning tea and a handbook of resources. BYO lunch. To register, contact Margaret@.au._________________________Philanthropy NZ 2015 conferencePhilanthropy New Zealand's biennial conference, the Philanthropy Summit 2015 is being held in Auckland on April 15 & 16, 2015.Find more information about the conference at ________________________Getting ready for the long-haul: Seeing, seizing and sustaining post-disaster opportunities for strong sustainability From VISION to ACTIONwith Katja BrundiersWhen?: Thursday 16 April 2015 from 7:30–9:00 pmWhere?: WEA Centre, 59 Gloucester StKatja is visiting Christchurch to learn from its people what opportunities for sustainable development they identified post-earthquakes, how they pursued their visions and what people around the world, pursuing similar endeavors, can learn from Christchurch. Before arriving in Christchurch, Katja conducted similar research in Indonesia on the recovery process after the Indian Ocean Tsunami in 2004. Katja will share her first impressions from her fieldwork and some of the frameworks that inform this research on the ground. She looks forward to an evening of exchange and discussion with you about how to continue transforming the city and its processes around visions of strong sustainability.This evening will give us the opportunity to kick-off thinking around strategy building by exploring opportunities to reinvigorate ideas for strong sustainability as expressed in Share an Idea and how to continuously implement them in the coming years: how to get ready for the long-haul, against the odds.Katja Brundiers is the Community-University Liaison for the School of Sustainability at Arizona State University. She matches up professors and students with people in the community—from government, business, and non-profit organizations—and supports their collaboration on sustainability solutions. Katja is also a PhD student, currently conducting fieldwork in Christchurch for her thesis on “disasters as opportunities for sustainable development”. _____________________________Outward Bound for Youth Workers – Connect Youth Worker Course, 18-25 AprilSubsidized price $500 instead of $2,600. Must have 2+ years paid or voluntary youth sector experience, be 20+ years old, and meet fitness and medical requirements. This year also offering the full classic 21 day course for only $500 (saving $3,600). Contact regional relationship manager Alyssa Boobyer (04) 974 5768 or freephone 0800 688 927._____________________________COSS forum: Human Services, Disaster and Social Justice Kate van Heugten talks about her recently-published book Human Service Organizations in the Disaster Context. Using the stories of frontline workers and managers who lived through the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes, and drawing on international research and sociological theory, Kate analyses the challenges and opportunities that arise after disasters. In the immediate aftermath, there is often a surge in altruism giving rise to hope for improved social cohesion. This hope wanes when negative impacts fall unequally on people living in poverty and other vulnerable populations. Political, financial, and professional interest groups vie for power and local citizens' voices are frequently overruled. Human service workers act as boundary spanners, networking between organisations to draw attention to the concerns of vulnerable people, and to advocate for human rights and social justice.Date: 21 April, 12.30 - 1.30pm. BYO lunch. Tea & coffee available. Venue: Meeting Room 1, Christchurch Community House, 301 Tuam St (between Barbadoes and Fitzgerald). No parking available on-site. Closest is cnr Babadoes & Tuam St, .$3 all day. ________________________The Collaborative for Research and Training in Youth Health and DevelopmentThe Collaborative 7th Annual Research Hui Dates:? Thursday 23rd and Friday 24th April 2015Location:? Rydges Latimer (30 Latimer Square, Christchurch)The theme for the Research Hui is "Applying a Framework for Youth Wellbeing". The theme will build on the momentum gained in our 2014 hui aimed at creating connections between people working with young people in order to enhance healthy youth development. Visit for more information and the link to the on-line registration. You can also contact Sam for more information (samyouthcollaborative@outlook.co.nz ).________________________Dementia: The Basicsfrom Alzheimers Canterbury This is a comprehensive course for professionals new to dementia care or those who wish to refresh their knowledge and skills.This course is for health and other professionals working with people with dementia - resthome/hospital staff, community workers, social workers, counsellors, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, district nurses, tutors, volunteers, pharmacists, GP practice nurses, diversional therapists, needs assessors, service coordinators ics covered include:Introduction to dementiaPsychiatric and medical complicationsCommunicationBehavioursDate and Time: Friday 24th April 2015, from 8.30am to 4pm. Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea included.Location: Meeting Room at Alzheimers Canterbury (314 Worcester Street, Linwood). Offsite parking available.Cost: $100 for members. $110 for non-members. All proces include GST.Registrations with payment close on Friday 10th April 2015 unless maximum number is reached before this date. There is a minimum of 12 and a maximum of 15 participants.Contact Alzheimers Canterbury to register your place or for more information on this course (03 379 2590 or 0800 004 001).__________________________Health in All Policies New Zealand's inaugural Health in All Policies (HiAP) conference is being held on Friday 1st May 2015 in Christchurch. As well as celebrating ten years of HiAP work in Canterbury, the Conference will 'take the pulse' of HiAP in New Zealand and ask the question, 'where to next?'?Confirmed speakers include Professor Sir Peter GluckmanHenare Ngaera O’KeefeAna ApatuProfessor Paul DalzielAssociate Professor Susan MortonConference registrations are now open. Once registered you will be provided with an opportunity to submit an abstract for a 10 minute presentation, a Pecha Kucha presentation, or a poster presentation.More information from ____________________________Connect.Grow.ThriveRegistrations are now open for our 6th national nutrition and physical activity conference to be held on 6 and 7 May 2015 in Auckland.More information about registration from . Early bird registrations close at 5pm on Friday 27th March.We are thrilled to announce Professor Neville Owen, head of the Behavioural Epidemiology Laboratory and programme leader for behavioural and generational change?at Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute in Melbourne, Australia as one of our keynote speakers.?Neville's research relates to the primary prevention of diabetes, heart disease and cancer, through identifying the health consequences and environmental determinants of physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour – too little exercise and too much sitting.More information from the link at _______________________________Fundraising Institute of New Zealand 2015 Conference11 – 13 May in Wellington at Te Papa MuseumThe newest ideas, engaging speakers and networking opportunities aplenty are in store. FINZ is also offering a wide variety of sessions for mid-career and experienced fundraisers.With more charity speakers than ever before, you'll learn directly from NZ non-profits what's working, what isn't and what is on the horizon. Learn more at .nz/2015conf . Early bird rates end 1 April.____________________________Leadership Learning for YouthTuesday 12 May, 4.30 - 5.50pmRoom 105 Hagley Community College, Hagley Ave. Seminar on strengths based experiential youth leadership learning, by Rachel Brian, based on her Masters research recently conducted in conjunction with the White Elephant Trust. Gold coin donation.______________________________Effective Training TechniquesThis workshop is ideal for anyone who wants to create a desire for individuals to learn new skills, by inspiring and empowering people to succeed.Date and Time: Saturday 23rd May 2015, from 9.30am to 4pmLocation: The George (50 Park Terrace, Christchurch)Cost: $250 per person (including GST)The content is based on the most commonly asked questions received and will include:Increasing the level of engagementGetting people to interact with each otherGetting quiet people to share their ideasStopping loud people from sharing their ideasStopping people from zoning outMaking training fun and memorableUsing music in my trainingUtilising fun activitiesReally! I can do that?Getting people to feel more comfortableLearning how can I feel more comfortableThe facilitator's goal for this training is to have you leave with real tools that you can use back at work on Monday morning. You will add to the tools you currently use, expanding your personal training style to help you train people more confidently.This workshop will be facilitated by Michael Philpott (Director and Trainer).Contact ATTS to book your place on this workshop (03 428 6903 or info@atts.co.nz )._________________________Brain Based TherapyEnacting Client Change Through the Persuasive Power of Neurosciencewith Dr John Arden (USA)Recent advances in the neurosciences have increased our knowledge of how and why people change. This training will examine the use of brain-based interventions to enhance outcomes with a variety of client populations.Some of the key content John will cover includesFind common denominators among therapy traditions that are efficaciousDiscover therapeutic traditions that are counter therapeuticLearn healthy brain behaviours such as diet, sleep, exerciseHow you can explain to clients the issues and behaviours explored in therapy in brain-based terms and talk about real neurological structures that can? help clients make positive changes.Date:?Monday 25th May 2015Price: $235Venue: Copthorne Hotel Commodore, 449 Memorial Avenue, ChristchurchDetails: 9am - 4pm (Morning tea and lunch are provided)Further details from Compass Seminars, PO Box 18018, New Plymouth. Ph 06 759 1647, email office@compass.ac.nz . pass.ac.nz _____________________________Fundraising and Sponsorship workshopsSustainable FundingIn this?one day workshop you will discover: The 7 Key Income Streams for?Charitable Groups. What opportunities are you missing out on?What donors, sponsors and funders are really looking for. How?do you?make your approach for the best chance of success?Why traditional fundraising events are an important part of the mix, and how you can get more people helping out so that you're not doing all the work.Simple tips and tricks for raising more money doing what you already do, but doing it smarter.How to navigate the 'yeah buts' in your organisation so that you can try new fundraising ideas and start moving your organisation forward.How to put it all into a Sustainable Funding Plan so you're not scrambling from one financial crisis to the next.When: Wednesday 3 June, 9.30am - 4pmWhere: Christchurch Community House, ChristchurchSecret of SponsorshipIn this workshop you will discover:What sponsors really want. What can you offer in a sponsorship package and how much is it worth? There's more to it than logos.Who?makes a?potential sponsor for your organisation. Are there logical partners that you have overlooked? Who are the?businesses you have never even thought of?How to approach potential sponsors for the best of chance of success including templates for sponsorship letters, packages and contracts. You don't have to re-create the wheel.What you need to do to keep sponsors on-board year in and year out.Tips, tricks and strategies for making the whole process easier and more valuable for your organisation.When: Thursday 4 June, 9.30am - 4pmWhere: Christchurch Community House, ChristchurchCost: $120 per person / per day. Thanks to a subsidy from Christchurch City Council, Christchurch Organisations pay just $60 per person / per day.To Register: Email tracey@exult.co.nz or visit to register online.Numbers are strictly limited and these workshops will book out fast. Register early to secure your space.______________________________Family Therapy Training 2015Systemic Approaches to Working with Individuals, Couples and Families30 June – 2 July 2015 in ChristchurchThis 3-day workshop introduces participants to systemic family therapy theory and practice. The aim is to increase your effectiveness when working with individuals, couples or families in any setting. The workshop is largely experiential and utilises group work processes, action methods, role play, didactic discourse & reading materials to achieve its aims.This workshop is suitable for participants with no previous experience in family therapy and also those with previous introductory to intermediate level training. A wide range of professionals who work therapeutically with clients in their family systems will benefit from participating, including those in health, welfare, social development, education, corrections & justice sectors. It is not necessary to be working with whole families to take part in the workshop. Cost: $460 plus GST. Send registration to Reid Whisker Ltd: by email to craigwhisker@.nz, by post to PO Box 430 Paraparaumu 5254. Payment not required until invoice issued. Please advise who invoice is to be made payable to. Inquiries to Craig Whisker, ph 04 905 1161 or 021 213 9921. Email craigwhisker@.nz Craig Whisker, MA (Applied) in Social Work, Clinical Member and Accredited Supervisor with the Australian Assn. of Family Therapy (AAFT), is a family therapist & certificated psychodramatist (AANZPA) in private practice living in Kapiti. He is currently a doctoral candidate researching family therapy in NZ and has been conducting family therapy training since 2003.________________________Events for professional development in the NFP sectorBy Grow EventsWorking in the NFP sector can be challenging, rewarding, frustrating, inspirational ... You need a good heart, clear vision, a sharp mind, patience, clever strategies, skills, networks and endless energy. Some of these attributes you are born with, and some come with training and experience.We have a great range of hands-on training workshops coming up shortly where you and/or your staff can develop skills and network.We invite you to review and select the sessions that will help you gain the skills you need in your mission. We have new workshops being added every month, all are listed on our website: grow.co.nz/eventsFUNDINGLottery Ministers Discretionary FundIncludes provision for training for financial planning and/or good governance. Community organisations need to demonstrate the community benefit of the organisation or any members receiving training. To find out more and to apply: Mazda Foundation Trust Trust aims include (but are not limited to) the provision of financial aid to individuals and causes which may qualify for income tax deductibility for gifts and which provide: Assistance towards the maintenance and improvement of the natural environmentAssistance in the advancement of culture and education to achieve excellence at all levels in the communityAssistance to young people through advancement of education and employment skills development, with particular emphasis on children from deprived backgroundsAssistance in the arts where the goal is to educate and expose the NZ public on NZ cultureThe Mazda Foundation does not support: Political organisationsReligious organisationsFundraising dinners or eventsSalaries, wages or feesCapital building projectsDebt reduction requestsRequests from foreign countriesProperty rental or lease paymentsOffice or administration expensesThe closing date for the next round of Mazda Foundation applications is 31 March 2015. For more information or to download an application form, visit .nz_________________________________Google Adwords GrantsGoogle is now offering Google Adwords Grants for New Zealand charities - the only requirement is that you are registered with The New Zealand Charities Commission.Adwords are the ads that come up at the top or on the side of the results of a google search. To see an example, google “aged care Christchurch” and you’ll see several Adwords. You can use these to promote your services and activities or invite donations.Digital Consultancy work with New Zealand charities to help set-up the Google Grant and assist them in getting to the top of Google. Find out more at or ______________________Ministry of Youth Development FundingServices for Young People FundWe provide funding to community-based services for young people aged 12-24 in New Zealand. These services provide opportunities for young people to connect with their communities, gain confidence and learn new skills.Small Communities Youth Grant FundThe ‘Small Communities’ Youth Grant Fund aims to support young people from New Zealand’s island communities to apply for grants of between $2,000 - $5,000 for youth-led initiatives and activities for and by young people aged 12 to 24 years._______________________CERA Funding: Rotary has been asked by CERA to help strengthen communities and they have a web site at .nzThey have been established to support locally initiated projects that contribute towards improving wellbeing and building resilient communities and neighbourhoods’. Applicants to the fund can apply for up to $500 for small neighbourhood events and up to $4,000 for larger community events._________________________________The Fletcher Trust is pleased to receive applications for assistance from groups working in the areas of education and youth development. There is no formal application form. Instead, organisations are invited to put their case for consideration forward in their own words. As The Trust meets quarterly, applicants can usually expect a prompt response.Every application is treated on its merits, but the Trust's main aim is to support education and youth development programmes. In particular, applications for 'start-up' funding are welcome.The Trust accepts one application per 12 months from any organisation. If you do receive a grant, funds must be used within one year and evidence of this may be required. The Trust will not provide funds for national appeals or appeals by a second party, or for investment, salaries, wages, individuals or travel.Website address is: ___________________The Learning Fund J R McKenzie TrustThe Learning Fund makes small grants (up to $500) towards the costs to access the learning opportunities where sharing happens. If there’s a conference or a training session which is relevant to this work, but you can’t afford the registration fee or you’d like to visit another organisation doing this kind of work and need financial help to get there. To find out more go to .nz/learning-fund _____________________The Tindall Foundation provides funding for providers of services to young children, families, youth development, Maori and minority ethnic groups, adult literacy, budgeting or community services and development. There is no closing date. See the Tindall Foundation website at .nz or call (09) 488 0170, email admin.ttf@.nz ____________________________Canterbury Community Trust closing dates 2015Arts & Heritage1 MaySocial Services5 JuneEducation24 JulyCommunity & Economic Development: 4 SeptemberEnvironmental4 SeptemberSport & Recreation6 NovemberChatham Islands6 NovemberNote: From 1st April all applications must be made online. Further information from the advisors at 0508 266 878._____________________________Need Help Now Fund - Canterbury Community TrustCanterbury Community Trust have established this fund to support the post-earthquake community and social infrastructure of Canterbury by dispersing $2 million within 12 months. One Need Help Now fund is up to $50,000 for stretched organisations experiencing greater demands and new delivery challenges, and a second Building Communities fund is up to $5,000 for wellbeing activities and events. Application forms available on: .nz_______________________________________Lottery Grants 2015 dates(Fund nameOpensCloses Ctee meeting date)Lottery Outdoor Safety: mid April, late May, mid August.Lottery Community (Regional and National): late May, early July, mid - late October.Lottery Community Facilities: late June, early September, early - mid December.Lottery World War One Commemorations, Environment and Heritage: late June, early September, early - mid December.Lottery Marae Heritage and Facilities: late June, early September, early - mid DecemberLottery Community Sector Research: early July, mid August, late November.See for more information.____________________________Other grants administered by DIACommunity Organisation Grants Scheme (COGS)Applications open 18 March and close 13 May 2015. Committees meet throughout August. Community Internship ProgrammeApplications open late July and close mid-September 2015. Committee meets late November.Support For Volunteering FundApplications open mid March and close early May 2015. Committee meets late July – early Aug. See for more information about what each grant will fund and how to apply. Clare in the CommunityWith thanks to the Guardian and Harry VenningThe Council of Social Services in Christchurch IncTe Kaunihera Kaupapa Oranga ki OtautahiCharities Commission Registration No: CC26511Ph 03 366 2050 Email newsletter@.nz Membership: Membership entitles you to the monthly newsletter, voting and nomination rights, attendance at meetings, advocacy and the right to bring concerns to the attention of the Board. Associate membership: Associate members subscribe to the newsletter for the same cost as membership.Donations: Many community groups these days are facing a cut in funding. Any donations will help to ensure that COSS will continue to provide information and a voice for community groups. Annual Membership / SubscriptionOrganisations (Income $75,000 or more) $55.00 (Income under $75,000) $40.00Individuals(Waged) $25.00 (Unwaged) payment at Member’s discretionIf finance is the only barrier to membership, fees can be waived. Please contact the office. ................
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