MINISTRY OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
I SSU E 22 – M A RCH 2013
“He aha te mea nui o te ao? Mäku e kı¨ atu. He tangata, he tangata, he tangata!” “What is the most important thing in the world? I tell you. It is people, it is people, it is people!”
Courage Tackling family violence – Jude Simpson’s mission Courage to innovate – Levin tests new ways to support young people Speaking out – a voice for disabled children Life-changing choices – teenagers working to succeed
Northland Auckland
Waikato
This issue of Rise is about courage
Bay of Plenty East Coast
Taranaki/ King Country/ Whanganui Central Nelson/ Marlborough/ West Coast
Wellington
Canterbury
Welcome to the March issue of Rise. Courage is the quality that enables people to face difficulty, fear or challenge. Southern
It is a quality that the social sector sees every
Brendan Boyle Chief Executive
day in people, families and communities who are striving for good lives, as well as those working to support them. That’s what the stories in this issue of Rise are about.
trying new ways of delivering social services to
Jude Simpson had the courage to turn away from
help their young people do better in education,
abuse and help others who are still trapped by family violence. ISSN 1178-4709 (Print) ISSN 1178-4717 (Online)
The Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, on page 15, recognises the efforts of young people with the resolve and courage to make lifechanging choices and stick to the right track. It takes courage to turn your life around. A spark for the future, on page 10, tells the story
Printed in New Zealand by Blue Star Print Group (NZ) Ltd using FSC® mix paper from responsible resources, using mineral oil free, soy-based vegetable inks.
of young people striving to turn towards a good future, alongside their inspiring Youth Service case worker.
The information provided in this Ministry of Social Development publication is intended to profile initiatives, research and opinions related
It’s not just young people who need courage.
to the social sector, and all reasonable measures have been taken to
After years away from education and a long time
ensure that the information set out in this publication is accurate.
without work, Henry Lemalu was afraid he’d
However, readers are advised that: »» The Ministry does not implicitly or impliedly endorse the views presented in this publication unless otherwise stated. »» The information provided does not replace or alter the laws of New Zealand or any other official guidelines or requirements. »» The contents of this publication should not be construed as legal advice. Before relying on any information in this publication, users should independently verify its relevance for their purposes.
ii RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
courage in Testing ground on page 22. They are
Family violence campaigner and educator
work and life. When you get a moment to browse through this issue, I hope you can find some inspiration there. Finally, Rise is exploring ways to make our stories easier for more people to reach. As well as a printed copy, we can email links to each new online version of the magazine. And, for the first time, you can read Rise in iBook format, with turnable pages and extra features such as links to further information. It's a first step towards a better online Rise experience. You’ll find more on the inside back cover of this issue.
never measure up. But he stepped out of his comfort zone and now he’s an awarding-winning security guard. Innovation also takes courage, for there is no guarantee of success when you try something
Brendan Boyle
new. The Levin community shows that kind of
Chief Executive, Ministry of Social Development
contents Cover story Read Rise on your iPad, receiv e link s to Rise online or join our m ailing list. D etails on page 33.
2 Courage to help
It’s Not OK campaigner Jude Simpson has turned her experience of abuse into a life mission to prevent others from walking the path she did.
Feature stories
6 The One Thing Plan
A new positive parenting idea is helping West Auckland’s single mums cope with stress, one step at a time.
8 Voice Thru Your Hands
The mother of a child with Down’s Syndrome is striving to make sure that children with disabilities get their right to communicate.
10 A spark for the future
Young people and youth workers talk about how Youth Service is helping to shape futures for some of our most at-risk, disengaged teenagers.
13 Security zone
An unemployed Wellington man who was afraid he’d never make the grade has become Security Trainee of the Year, thanks to a great employer working with Work and Income.
14 Teen mums in the Dragon’s Den
Young mothers in a Teen Parents Unit impress the judges with their business plans.
18 Spotlight on Central
2
Levin has seized the chance to be a testing ground for a bold new community-driven approach to social services that get better results for its young people.
22 Spotlight on Canterbury
Young people are a key part of Christchurch’s rebuild, an inspiring community-minded man works with businesses and prisoners alike, and Rockers of Ages choirs connect older people with the community.
27 Spotlight on Waikato
Two very different Waikato organisations have taken on the task of helping young people through the new Youth Service, Neville Williams talks about creating new ways to help people back into work, and a building partnership is creating new futures in work for jobseekers.
Regular columns
8
10
15 Photo essay – Pr ime Minister’s Yout h Pr ogr amme 30 Regional r ound-up 33 Tips, links and news = Rise goes digi tal, You t h Par liament, Endur ing power of at tor ney public consul tat ion RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 1
courage to help A courageous woman has turned her experience of abuse into a life mission to prevent others from walking the path she did.
“We were two little girls being confronted by a monster. We couldn’t defend ourselves...” 2 RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
But the promising fresh start didn’t last.
If you know anything about JUDE
In a police cell, facing seven to 10 years in
SIMPSON’S life, you’d have to say she’s got
jail, pregnant with her fourth child to a man
courage in spades. It’s
a
history
that
has
given
who abused her trust, Jude promised herself
her
that when she got out, things had to change.
unique credibility in campaigning against family violence.
A helping angel
Whether answering individual letters sent to the It’s Not OK website, or working with
Jude was not jailed. She packed up and
community groups or police officers who
moved to Tauranga. There she was put onto
are learning how to support victims, Jude’s
a personal development course – or she’d lose
words hold weight with her audiences. That’s
her benefit.
because she has been there, and now she’s
Seemingly out of the blue, a woman called
determined to raise awareness of family
Deb, whose organisation was contracted by
violence, what it does to young lives and how
Work and Income, asked Jude to facilitate one
every person can help.
of her sessions for solo mums. Jude was sceptical. But she made a decision
Jude, now in her 50s, needed all the gumption she could muster just to survive her childhood. At 10, Jude’s parents split. Jude and her sister went to live in Napier with their stepmother and father. But behind their white, middle-class façade was dysfunction and violence.
honest eyes, I knew that living my life the way
At 16 Jude became pregnant to a man
I had been wasn’t working for me. And that
who’d seemed nice at first. Shortly after they
meant it was not working for my children.
married, their relationship became abusive.
I had to do this – not only for me, but for
Over the next 20 years Jude had four children to four different, abusive partners.
stepmother’s cruelty and violence. Jude tells
She believed herself to be a “gutter tramp
Every time Jude was negative about herself
of being forced to eat food her stepmother
and an ugly, unlovable person”. Attracted to
or her life, Deb would suggest a positive angle.
had spat into and of being humiliated in
the only life she thought she deserved, she
book,
Found:
woman.
have a look at my life with a set of totally
A
her
and
The abused child became an abused
“I was prepared to do whatever it took because, after finally having the courage to
Woman’s Living Proof, Jude describes her
In
Lost
Spiral of abuse
that was to change her life for good.
front of school mates. The stepmother also intercepted letters to Jude’s birth mother, leaving Jude isolated. “She would get so angry that she would
entered a world of drugs, alcohol, gangs and abuse of all forms.
them. It was time.” Deb was a constant support.
“She’d say, ‘You’re doing a great job, doing really well.’ “I’d say ‘I can’t’. She’d say ‘You can’.
At one point, she realised she would either
“She helped me create a new belief system
be killed or die a slow death. Somehow she
in my life because the one I was working with
found the strength to escape.
was negative.
scream and swear and rant and rave. When she
“While there is still breath and life in us
“Family violence squashes and destroys and
was in this state she was absolutely terrifying
we have the ability to fight and find strength
kills your spirit. How do you try to repair that?
and out of control.
when it’s a matter of survival. Maybe those
“We try to repair and restore through kind
“We were two little girls being confronted
survival instincts stay inside us no matter what
words and praise. I craved kind words. It was
by a monster. We couldn’t defend ourselves.
state or place we’re in, no matter how dark
like a gift and like a hug. Simple words and
We were not even allowed to speak. We just
our world may seem,” she writes.
praise can mean so much.
had to stand there and take her assault.” No one called the police – not neighbours, family, healthcare workers or teachers. Although she eventually managed to get
Outwardly she began rebuilding her life
“There were times when I thought, ‘This
away from abuse, accumulating possessions,
is ridiculous. I’m not a good person. I’m not an
making a home for her children and working
honest person. People are mean and cruel and I’m
in the fitness industry.
a victim. So bugger off!’
Inwardly she felt different from everyone else.
“My world was always full of dramas and
“I used to look at people and think if you
suffering and things going wrong. When you’re
damage had been done. Jude decided that life
really knew what I was, you’d want nothing
committing fraud and stealing off people, what
was just cruel like that, and perhaps she didn’t
to do with me. They’d be mortified with this
do you expect?”
deserve anything better.
person. In my eyes I was just scum.”
back to her mother in New Plymouth, the
But slowly the approach started to pay off.
RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 3
“I started to see I was rewarded for being good and honest. Good things started to happen
from desperate children, women and men living in violent homes. Her column is incredibly popular. Internet
little by little. “I started to realise this is how it works. What you give out is what you’re going to get back.”
searches for “Ask Jude” are the second-most common way for people to find the It’s Not OK website.
Sharing the lessons The life lessons Jude learned the hard way now serve her well. It’s her life’s work to raise awareness of family violence, what it does to young lives and how everyone can help. When community
she
facilitates
agencies,
workshops
DHBs
and
for other
organisations, she’s often surprised by people’s poor understanding of family violence. “It’s interesting how many people working and dealing with family violence don’t know how to deal with it. They don’t understand the soul-destroying effects of it. They don’t understand what the alerts and signs are. They don’t know how to help.” She also draws on her experiences to help the Ministry of Social Development’s It’s Not OK campaign against family violence. In her How to Help workshops she powerfully shows how neglect and abuse affects children at different stages in their lives, why women stay with abusive partners and what kind of courage it takes to get out. As someone who’s walked the talk, her words hold weight with her audiences. Trish Green, MSD’s social change campaign manager, says Jude has a huge impact. personal stories of change to inspire others. Jude brings a down-to-earth approach to
“I thank them for writing in. It takes a lot
many things you do can help.
of courage to verbalise that there’s something going on that’s not right. I think they’re wonderful for taking that first step.”
Stepping in Jude also talks to new police recruits and criminal investigation branch cops as part of the Police’s new focus on supporting victims to prevent future offending. She says cops can be poker-faced during her presentations, but often give great feedback afterwards. One senior inspector told her, “In all my years of policing I’ve only come across a couple
they go on to commit crime?” No one stepped in for Jude as a child, but she hopes that if we step in for other children and women, we can save more people from walking in her shoes. “One would hope that the situations I faced would be handled quite differently today. business. I don’t want to get involved.’” Jude has a challenging question for people reluctant to step in.
involved, how would you feel?
answers
letters
»» Taking over doesn’t help – ask what they want, give information not advice. »» Choose a quiet time to talk. »» Ask:
• I’m worried about what could happen to you or the kids • What can I do to help? »» Be there for support, offer practical help like babysitting or a place for time out. »» For children, do something and don’t assume others are. »» For people using violence, challenge the behaviour but not the person. Let them know help is available.
The sooner you reach out to
“It can be quite scary. Sometimes it takes
someone who is living with violence,
courage to intervene. But we encourage
whether they are the victim or the
people to do something.”
perpetrator, the sooner they can
Services that can help include: »» Police – call 111 if someone is in danger, even if you are not sure »» It’s Not OK phone line – 0800 456 450 to find services and talk though options »» Child, Youth and Family – 0508 FAMILY if you are concerned about a child or young person »» Women’s Refuges – 24-hour line at 0800 733 843 for help and information.
4 RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
is not their fault.
• Are you scared to go home?
people were exposed to as kids, is it any wonder
a woman hurt very seriously? If you don’t get
Jude
without judging, tell them violence
• Is someone hurting you?
Jude’s story is one of hope. She has a huge
areyouok.org.nz,
»» Don’t blame the victim – listen
When you look at the horrific things these
by people who could have helped and didn’t,
website,
»» Don’t make excuses for violence.
once child victims at one stage of their lives.
next day you hear of the death of a child or
campaign’s
»» Take action if something is wrong.
• Are you OK?
as telling the story of a little girl surrounded
the
»» Take violence seriously.
of people who were just evil. All the rest were
“What say you don’t get involved and the
On
you know – or suspect – that a friend or family member is living with violence, but
talking about a very difficult subject. As well
impact on audiences wherever she speaks.”
It’s hard to know what to do when
Her answers always start the same way.
But you still come across the view ‘It’s not my
“There is nothing more compelling than
It is OK to help
get help.
Find out more about ways to help and what services are available at www.areyouok.org.nz
RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 5
the one thing plan Raising children can be tough, especially
One mum was stressed about her young
mums. For example, many kids have never
when you’re struggling to make ends meet.
child throwing food in the highchair and
been away from their mothers before. So she
worried about the landlord complaining.
provides childcare right there, allowing kids
Her One Thing plan included putting plastic
to go in and out.
A SKIP workshop that helps mums tackle one problem at a time is making a big difference to some of Auckland’s vulnerable families. After seeing how mothers with young children in difficult circumstances were often overwhelmed by the multitude of problems they faced, Auckland Women’s Centre Coordinator Rochelle Carr created her SKIP One Thing plan. She uses it in workshops to help mothers set and achieve one goal at a time. At the first workshop, each mother
on the floor, counting to ten when she was
With West Auckland having one of the
angry about the mess, and using humour to
highest concentrations of single parent
defuse the situation.
families in Auckland, the Auckland Women’s
“At the next workshop, the mum was
Centre has intentionally focused its work
back saying ‘Counting to ten really works!’
in this area. It held nine workshop series
She was surprised that this simple strategy
in 2012, and more are planned this year.
was so effective.”
They are also extending the workshops to
Another single mum was working at home with two young girls. She was distracted from her work with the children around, but wasn’t getting quality time with her kids either.
chooses one thing they want to change. It
Her plan was to help the girls create a
might be not yelling, or getting kids to bed at
‘quarter hour flower’ a cardboard flower
a reasonable time.
with a lanyard attached. Each child got a turn
Then, with Rochelle’s help, they plan how to
to wear it each day, and that meant they
do it. They stick the plan on the fridge door and
could choose an activity for their mother to
try it for three weeks, before reporting back to the group. “You can’t solve all your issues at once,” Rochelle explains. “Change takes time and you need to forgive yourself when you fail. Some mums may only make it along to the
do with them on their own for 15 minutes. “She came back to the group really excited! Scheduling daily one-on-one time with each of her kids had transformed their behaviour and her relationship with them, and allowed more focus on her work. things the girls want to do, like building
good tool, because at least they go away with
blocks or making princess crowns with
a strategy to change one thing that’s really
card and stickers or drawing outside with
important to them.”
pavement chalk.”
for a year, and already seen plenty of successes.
6 RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
Rochelle and the Auckland Women’s Centre run a variety of regular activities such as sessions where single mums can support each other and learn about positive parenting tools. Demand is growing with more than 80 West Auckland single mums now in regular contact. “It’s
both
exciting
and
humbling.
The
SKIP
messages
are
so
and
non-judgmental
that
they
really
change
their
motivate
mums
to
positive
relationship with their children for the better,” Rochelle says.
“She was also amazed at the simple
first workshop so the One Thing plan is a
Rochelle has been running the workshops
other areas of Auckland this year.
Rochelle admits that there are some unique
challenges
working
with
single
Visit the SKIP website www.skip.org.nz to get support and information for parents and caregivers.
RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 7
8 RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
voice thru your hands Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) at night is
to communicate.
language can make a big difference to non-
The issue was getting others to accept that signing was a legitimate primary form of communication for people who could hear. “Seeing Tarryn not given the opportunity to
communicate
in
her
first
language
[signing] was heartbreaking. “Most people think of New Zealand Sign Language as a tool solely for the deaf community, but it helps anyone who has difficulty with speech.” When
New
Zealand
Sign
Language
became an official language in 2006, Ally decided to start advocating for it more strongly for children with disabilities. In Seven
years
ago
ALISON
ATWELL
The message is simple – sign language
school, and Tarryn was successfully using it
2007, she founded Voice Thru Your Hands.
for
everyone
and
even
basic
sign
verbal people. “Many of us think ‘it’s too hard. It’s a whole other language’. Or we feel embarrassed or anxious. “But
actually,
we
all
use
visual
communication every day. If you go to another country and can’t speak the language, the first thing you’ll do is gesture. It’s the same at the pub if you can’t hear people. “New Zealand Sign Language is just a formal way of using gestures. And if you don’t know the right sign, just act it out!” After
starting
small,
the
workshops
have grown to such a size that places like
Palmerston
North
Hospital
require
realised it was time to stop shouting
The Ministry of Social Development’s
at her television and instead publicly
Making a Difference Fund backed the
challenge widely-held attitudes that were
work as part of a social change campaign
45-strong dental workforce show up for an
holding her daughter back.
to improve attitudes and behavior towards
expansive discussion about what they could
At the time it was a big step outside her
disabled people. In the past couple of years,
do – from signing to using visual stories in
comfort zone, but you wouldn’t know it
the organisation’s work has snowballed to
the waiting room to show what will happen.
these days.
the point where much of its activity is now
Alison is the driving force behind Voice Thru Your Hands, a Palmerston North-
self-funded.
multiple sessions. One session saw Manawatu’s entire
Requests from Northland to Canterbury ask Ally to take the workshops to their
“We’ve gained credibility, exposure and
regions. It has been quite a journey for Ally, as a
successfully
the chance to link in with special education,
spreading awareness about the benefits of
health and education – and that’s fantastic.”
sign language. It focuses on children with
Last year, the organisation launched the
“It was a huge step to take but instead
intellectual disabilities, who often struggle
Children’s Visual Communication Dictionary
of focusing only on us and getting nowhere,
with learning speech.
– the first children’s picture dictionary with
it’s been about getting above that and
Back in 2006, Ally had been watching
vocabulary in Mäori, NZSL and English.
making a difference on a bigger scale.
in frustration as a documentary on speech
This year, the organisation is publishing a
disabilities
book on signs to help different groups of
based
organisation
that
discussed
is
the
over-riding
professionals communicate with children
importance of verbal communication. “Communication
is
more
than
just
talking!” Ally found herself shouting at the television. “People should know this!” At the time Ally was struggling to enable
they are helping. Plans for a DVD are underway too. Voice
Thru
Your
Hands
also
runs
mother and as a change maker.
“Children opportunity
that to
are
express
not
given
the
themselves
are
being robbed of their rights. By using one of our official languages, New Zealand Sign Language, our children can have a real chance to have a voice.”
workshops for families of people with
her daughter Tarryn to use New Zealand Sign
disabilities,
Language at school.
from teachers to doctors to dentists. The
as
well
as
professionals,
Tarryn, who is now 12, has Down’s
workshops include an introduction to simple
Syndrome. She can hear with slight difficulty,
sign language vocabulary, and how it can
but struggles to speak. Ally learned New
help people with disabilities.
Learn for
more
about
children
with
sign
language
disabilities
at
www.voicethruyourhands.org.nz.
RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 9
a spark for the future
“We are making footprints for the ways we work to help young people get back to school, or into training or work.” – Youth Service case worker Fati Tagoai
10 RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
Youth Service case worker FATI
They work intensively with the young people,
Sam wants to go to Whitireia Polytech to
TAGOAI and a network of supporting
helping them make plans and get whatever
do a mechanics course. He has to complete
organisations are working alongside
help and services they need to make more
his school education first, but that doesn’t
disengaged 16 and 17-year-olds, helping
of their lives.
put him off now.
them make life-changing plans to get back into school, training or work.
Sam When 17-year-old Sam* talks about cars his face lights up. “Yeah, cars are my life” he says with a
“I had been trying to get Sam in for an
“It’s worth it now to work hard on school
appointment, but he kept not turning up,”
work. I regret it – leaving early – but I want
says Fati. “Then he re-offended, so I went
to get back to it so I can get my own place,”
to his court appearance.
says Sam.
“I talked to Sam and his lawyer and told them that I could work with Sam, help him get into training or work and get off the track he was on.”
grin as he outlines his plans for the future.
Sam has been in and out of trouble
“I want my own place, a yard where I can fix
since dropping out of intermediate school.
and scrap cars, and be my own boss.”
He’d spent time in a youth justice residence,
He’s come a long way from the directionless boy that Fati Tagoai met for the first time in October last year.
offended and re-offended. It seemed certain that Sam was facing a jail sentence this time round. But with Fati’s
Fati – or Futtz as the kids call him – had
support the judge decided to give Sam a
been trying for some time to reach Sam and
chance. Instead of jail, Sam was sentenced
hook him up with the new Youth Service
to community work.
that started in August 2012. Youth Service is a new way of supporting disengaged 16 and 17-year-olds as well as
Turning lives around It takes courage to turn away from the past and try to make more of your life – especially when that means having another shot at school or being responsible for yourself at a young age. Fati says that Youth Service focuses on young people at a pivotal time in their lives, when almost every decision has the potential to be life-changing.
Fati found community work linked with
“You have to tackle them in that period
a youth programme, hoping to get Sam
where they are experimenting, when they
thinking about a positive future.
are easily swayed by negative influences.
16 to 18-year-old parents back into school,
“It made me stop and think big time,”
“The important thing is to get your foot
alternative education, training or work.
says Sam. “My brother got stabbed up in
in the door, start listening to the young
The teenagers get one-on-one mentoring
jail, just about died. I don’t want to follow
person and working out what their barriers
and support from specialist workers, such
in his footsteps.
are,” says Fati
as Fati, who work for Work and Income or contracted community youth organisations.
“Futtz is helping me work out how I can do what I love, and that’s cars.”
“Once we start sorting through the issues together and making a plan, it’s great to see
RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 11
that spark of hope in a young person’s eyes.
probation, as well as our usual contacts with
works for them. He’s not stuck in an office,”
That’s what it is all about.”
training providers and employers,” says Fati.
says Tracey.
It can take a lot of work to make real progress with young people, and Fati knows that well. He has worked with young people for over
“We have to refer our young people to other agencies for specialised support, because we can’t do it all in-house.
Emma
ten years; first as a youth worker at his church
“And all the time we need to keep the
Emma* left home at 16 when life got
and then with social service provider Vibe. He
focus on their plan, making sure the support is
tough with her stepdad, taking refuge with her
jumped at the chance to be part of the new
moving them on the right track.”
boyfriend’s family.
Youth Service with Work and Income, taking
Tracey Burge, a counsellor for Catholic
the new role of specialist case worker at the
Social Services in Wellington, has been
Kilbirnie Community Link in July 2012.
surprised at the range and flexibility of support
“I like the challenge of being in on
Fati can co-ordinate through Youth Service.
“I felt unsafe at home and I had to walk out with nothing, no clothes or anything. “My boyfriend’s family stood by me, gave me a home and came with me to Work and
the pioneering stage. We’ve set up group
“When Futtz said he could help me with
programmes, like budgeting and parenting
literacy courses for a client, I thought he had
That was when Emma learned that help
misunderstood. Young people who weren’t on
meant more than just a weekly payment. For
a benefit didn’t used to be able to get support
young people such as Emma who receive the
like that from Work and Income,” says Tracey.
Youth Payment, or those who receive the
courses. But we also get to be innovative. We are making footprints for the ways we work to help young people get back to school, or into training or work.”
Flexible, personal support It’s a different approach for Work and
Income to find out what (help) I could get.”
Catholic Social Services offer a 10-week
Young Parent Payment, Youth Service goes
programme for young people referred by
hand in hand with their financial assistance. It’s
Police, probation or the courts for anger
a must-do, with extra financial incentives if they
management or violence-related issues. The
complete a budgeting or parenting course, and
weekly counselling sessions often highlight
stick with education or training.
other issues the young people need help with.
For Emma, planning for the future has
Tracey found that Youth Service can pick these
included learning to budget and live on her own
up and get the right help in place.
money. She has just completed a budgeting
Income. The organisation is experienced in
“It opens the support network wider for the
helping young people find work or training,
young person, rather than just relying on one
but Youth Service takes a more holistic,
provider. Futtz can get all the relevant people on
“You need to think more about the things
pastoral approach.
board when they are needed. It feels cohesive.”
you need – the things that cost the most are
“Relationships are hugely important. We
“It’s also flexible. If you are 17, not working
the things you want and probably don’t need!”
need to have links with emergency housing
and not entitled to a benefit then you probably
providers, health and mental health agencies,
don’t have money to get to appointments.
Meanwhile, she is very excited about the
courts, the Ministry of Education, schools,
Futtz will meet the young person in a place that
future having just been accepted into training
course and was surprised to see where her money went.
says Emma.
to be a nanny. “I can’t wait to start! It’s great because it is hands-on working with a family most of the time and one class a week at college.” It’s hard for Emma to be away from her family, especially her younger siblings, but she is working on ways to keep in touch with them safely. She’s thankful for the support she has received from Work and Income and her school. “When it all happened to me, I felt really weak and it was hard to trust people. “When I came in, I felt like there was actually someone there to support me, get me back on my feet. I saw a little sparkle of something that I could do in the future,” says Emma. *Names have been changed. Visit www.youthservice.govt.nz to learn more about how Youth Service can help young people.
12 RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
security zone "I’ve learnt a lot and my knowledge is growing all the time"
Late one night last year, an elderly man
The company partners with Work and Income,
He says he is impressed by Henry’s
found himself harassed by a group outside
training unemployed clients with the aim of
determination and hopes that winning the
a Wellington bar.
moving them into work or further training.
award will prove to Henry that he is capable of
Afraid and unable to escape the situation, he sought refuge inside the bar.
It was the first time Henry had studied or trained since leaving school.
HENRY LEMALU was working security when the man came up and asked him for help.
achieving even more. “He is a prime example of someone who
“I was so afraid that I almost had second
hasn’t found the training easy, has struggled at
thoughts. I wasn’t sure if I was capable or
times, but has persevered and is now reaping
A quiet-spoken, steadfast individual, Henry
what I was getting myself into. But I’m pleased
the rewards of his efforts.”
was relatively new to security but he knew
I convinced myself that this was something I
what to do. “I went out there and told them to mind their own business. The following week the man came back and gave me a present to thank me for helping him out. That was a great feeling – knowing you can make a difference.” For employer Darryl Stonnell of First Contact Security, it would have come as no surprise to see his trainee handle the situation so well. Intelligent, committed and worthy are the words Darryl used when he nominated Henry for the Security Trainee of the Year 2012. And yet, 18 months before he won the
could do and that I needed to do”, says Henry. He shouldn’t have worried. Not only did he pass and gain a job, but First Contact saw the
Industry partnerships with Work and income
potential in Henry and encouraged him to go
allow industries, employers and government to
for the National Certificate in Security.
work together to fill skill and labour shortages,
“It was a nice feeling to know that Darryl
In the six months to December 2012,
to gain more qualifications. Otherwise I don’t
industry partnerships helped 1,208 unemployed
think I would have attempted it. I was worried
people train in a wide range of industries
about the theory aspect; I’ve never had to write
around New Zealand, with many moving
reports before or learn the specific alphabet
directly into work.
used in the industry.” Henry is now a team leader and studying
afraid he wouldn’t measure up, especially with
towards the Level 3 certificate. He says he’s
writing and theory, that it took all his courage
proud of what he’s done so far.
Struggling
to
find
work
on
“I’ve learnt a lot and my knowledge is the
and create job and career opportunities.
and the team supported me and wanted me
industry-wide award, Henry Lomalu was so
not to walk away from the opportunity.
Industry Partnerships
growing all the time.”
Unemployment Benefit back in 2011, Henry
For Darryl, the reward is not only gaining a
was offered a place on an eight-week training
valuable employee but seeing Henry grow in
course with a security company, First Contact.
confidence and skill.
To learn more, visit the Work and Income website: www.workandincome.govt.nz/ business/develop-your-workforce/ industry-partnerships Or call the Work and Income Employer Line 0800 778 008.
RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 13
teen mums in the dragon’s den It’s not easy to stand before a Dragon’s Den of successful business people and convince them that your business idea is a winner.
skills they learn will help them get jobs and be Sue Kay, joint co-ordinator from the Hawke’s Bay Teen Parent Unit, leapt at the
But a group of teenage mums in Hawkes
“We are always looking for opportunities
item for cyclists: a safety jacket with indicator
to inspire our young mums and help them
sleeves that light up to signal a turn.
see the possibilities out there.”
Young Enterprise Trust took their BusinessNZ Challenge to the Hawkes Bay Teen Parent Unit recently. The Challenge sees secondary school students working in teams to create a virtual company.
They
research
their
market,
create a business plan and work out the financial projections. On the last day, local businesspeople are invited to judge the ideas in
Young
mum
Ariana
player and camera, and a musical baby seat to keep baby entertained in the car. When it was time to present their ideas to
chance to be part of the trial.
Bay won over the panel with a must-have
That idea was dreamed up when the
The three other teams designed a compact makeup kit, a pen with a torch, music
better employees.”
and
her
team
mates were out to win from the beginning, but working on a project in a group was something new. “I thought it was going to be downhill, with us all wanting to do different things”, says
the Dragon’s Den, mum-to-be Michaela says: “We all got nervous, like stage fright.” But it clearly didn’t show, with one judge commenting that “the passion and pride for their ideas was tremendous to see.” Sue is keen to encourage other Teen Parent Units to take up the Challenge even though planning for young mums and babies can be complicated. “As it turned out one group had a
Ariana. “But once we worked out what job
few absences because of sick babies. .
everyone was going to do, we got on with it.”
It made it more difficult but we’re proud
Team member Marcia says, “We really
of them – they stuck at it, worked
wanted to win. We agreed that we all had to
hard, and came up with a
It’s not new, but with the support of the
come every day. At our presentation we set up
good product.”
Ministry of Youth Development, it’s the first
a table with water for the judges. We’d even
time the Challenge has been used with young
made a slice for them, but we ate it before!”
a Dragon’s Den-style format.
mothers in a Teen Parent Unit. Trust CEO Terry Shubkin says, “We want
TPU co-ordinator Biff Waddel agrees about the value of working as a team.
The Young Enterprise Trust is an independent charitable trust that has been running for 30 years. It offers
them to see that they can become a job creator
“They had a lot of tasks in a short time so
enterprise programmes for students in
instead of a job seeker. But even for those who
they needed to work together to get it done. It
primary and secondary schools. To find
aren’t looking to set up their own business, the
encouraged a whole new set of skills.”
out more visit www.yetrust.co.nz.
14 RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
prime minister's youth programme Look at me now Seventeen-year-old IVORY TUAIMALOVAEGA has a picture of the future and she’s determined to bring it to life.
the outstanding participant in the Prime
deliver the week-long programmes and follow
Minister’s Youth Programme this year.
up with three months of mentoring for each
Ivory was one of 100 young people who
young person.
It’s a picture where she’s working in a good
were part of the Prime Minister’s Youth
High-profile New Zealanders took part
job. Her parents are not working ‘ridiculous’
Programme during January. All were offered
as mentors during the week. They included
hours. The family is not worried or struggling
places as a reward for life-changing choices
designer Trelise Cooper, actor and comedian
to put food on the table.
and trying hard to stick to the right track.
Tofiga Fepulea’I, TV producer, businessman
For some people this might be little more
Nominated by Youth Aid officers, teachers
and personality Graeme Sinclair, musicians
than words. But the resolve Ivory has already
and social workers, the young people got
Queen Shirl’e and Erakah, several Hurricanes
shown in turning her own life around makes it
the chance to meet high-achieving Kiwis and
players and successful business people.
seem more than likely she’ll succeed.
enjoy a week of new challenges and fun.
Ivory says throughout the week she was
From an angry, loud, closed-off girl, she’s
Four providers – the TYLA Trust, the Village
amazed to learn how many accomplished
become an articulate and motivated young
Community Services Trust, NZ Blue Light and
people have struggled through tough times
woman, an academic achiever and voted
the Mangere East Family Services Centre –
and overcome challenges.
RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 15
“I couldn’t keep going the way I was heading. I had to change. I needed to change.” “So when you think you can’t be anything
My dad who is my biggest supporter did
She’s says her family have been the biggest
because you’ve got it too hard – that’s not true.
everything in his power to help me get a
motivation of all, as well as faith and the
“It opened my mind to bigger things. It
good future. He fought my battles and
support of 24-7 Youth Worker Lydia Ta’ale of
stood with me, good or bad.
the West City Youth Trust.
made me see I can reach for the stars. I can be what I want as long as I have a dream and determination and I don’t give up.”
I hadn’t realised the ridiculous hours
“She was always there to help, to
my parents worked just to put food on
encourage me to take opportunities and
She says her own transformation over the
the table. Seeing my parents bend over
growl me if I was going back to how I was.
past year or so was like climbing out of a black
backwards to try and make me happy
My family trust her too.”
hole where she’d been trapped. She writes:
made me realise that I couldn’t keep going
Ivory says she was honoured when Prime
the way I was heading. I had to change. I
Minister John Key presented her with the
needed to change.
outstanding participant award at the formal
“ Three years ago when I started Kelston
Girls College, I was a girl with a lot of anger built up inside.
A picture came into my head that I knew I could paint. It was clearer than anything:
celebration dinner of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme.
I gave attitude to anybody and everybody.
I would make a good future, get a good
“It felt great. It felt as if people were
I didn’t care whose feelings I hurt and I got
job and make sure my family never had to
judging me for what I do now, rather than
into a lot of dramas.
worry about anything.
looking at the past and thinking that I’ll
I would wag school to do pointless
With the help of my mentor, teachers,
things. When I came to class I was the main
friends and especially my family I am proud
reason why my class got no work done.
to say that I have passed NCEA level 1 and
The dean’s suite became my second home and I didn’t mind at all. I had no idea of the pain I was causing my family. My junior high school years flew by in a second and before I knew it I was taking on NCEA Level 1. Sitting in class and not knowing anything that was apparently taught to us in Year 9 and 10 made me feel like the laugh of the century.
16 RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
never be up to standard. “It’s like: ‘Just look at me now!’”
2 with Merit. I got Excellence in English and a Highly Commended Award for mathematics which has been my weakest subject all my life.
”
This year, Ivory has set herself the goal of achieving a scholarship to attend university where she’ll study law and arts. She’s also a keen writer.
Learn more about the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme: www.myd.govt.nz/funding/primeminister-s-youth-programme/index.html
RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 17
Spot light on Cent r al
We were keen to work alongside Visionstream, fostering young people into sustainable careers.”
Over the past two years, Levin’s Social Sector Trial has seen dozens of new youth-focused initiatives emerge from a Youth Community Action Plan created in 2011. 18 RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
Central Innovation means stepping into the unknown, but the Levin community has seized the opportunity to work with government trialling new ways to support young people.
Testing ground Seventeen-year-old Stephanie and 14-yearold Tennessee are very different. Stephanie, an academic achiever, is terribly shy. Until recently she would barely speak to anyone or meet their eye, let alone plan life beyond school. Tennessee, who was seldom out of bed before morning break at school, says she was a bit naughty, stubborn and mean to her teachers. What the two young women have in common is that they are among hundreds of young people in Levin getting innovative support to make more of their lives.
the Horowhenua District Council, and Sue Hori Te Pa from Child, Youth and Family. They work closely with a Local Governance Group of leaders from the community, local and central government agencies. Government funding, normally split between local providers competing for contracts from different government departments, is instead pooled and directed to services and projects in line with the Youth Community Action Plan. As Monique Davidson puts it: “Basically, the trial says: ‘what are the needs of our young people, here’s money to put into those needs, you decide how it should be spent.’ “Rather than meeting a list of contract outcomes set in Wellington, it is actually about what our community needs. It has allowed us to reinvent youth services.”
Reinventing services Rob Fifita-Tovo is one of nine new youth
Over the past two years, Levin’s Social Sector
co-ordinators who form the heart of the
Trial has seen dozens of new youth-focused
new approach. Some are attached to local
initiatives emerge from a Youth Community
schools. Others, including a drug and alcohol
Action Plan created in 2011.
counsellor, work in the community. They work
The goal is to see more young people thriving in school, training or work as well as cutting truancy, youth crime and use of drugs and alcohol.
Community driven Levin is one of six communities around New Zealand testing what happens when a
alongside 200 young people who are at-risk or need support. Rob is based in a local high school. He’s funded by money previously spent by the Ministries of Health, Education and Social Development on separate programmes for
Key facts Social Sector Trials have been running in Levin, Kawerau, Te Kuiti, Taumarunui, Gore and Tokoroa since March 2011. Encouraging results have seen the trials extended to June 2014. Aims: »» A fresh approach to social service delivery for youth. »» Better results for 12 to 18year-olds: »» Better participation in school training and work. »» Less truancy, youth crime, and alcohol or drug use. »» Increasing communities’ decision-making ability. »» More youth-focused decisionmaking.
Learn More www.msd.govt.nz/aboutmsd-and-our-work/workprogrammes/initiatives/socialsector-trials/index.html
youth drug or alcohol use, truancy and at-risk youth.
local organisation or an individual co-ordinates
Jacqui says getting youth co-ordinators
Rob describes himself as a navigator. He
cross-agency resources, local organisations and
into schools as part of the staff has been a
builds rapport with his young clients as a
government agencies to deliver collaborative
breakthrough.
listening ear, someone who advocates for
“In the past counsellors, social workers,
them and helps in making plans for their
In Levin, this responsibility lies with
teachers or mentors worked in silos,” says
future. He connects them with the support
a well-proven youth organisation, Life
Jacqui. “Several different people could be
they need to do better at home, in education
to the Max, led by Jacqui Moynihan, a
working with one young person, not always
and in the community.
police sergeant on secondment, along
knowing what the others were doing. We’ve
with Monique Davidson, seconded from
put that aside now.”
social services for young people.
Recently, Rob was trying to get to the heart of the frequent truancy of certain RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 19
Spot light on Cent r al girls, when he learned that some were
Strong
buy-in
from
the
wider
ashamed to turn up because of limited
community is the final ingredient, he says,
washing facilities at home.
with 50 different groups involved. and
“No one person or organisation takes
effective: “The Altrusa Club donated
the glory. It’s a collaborative approach
toiletries to keep at school and we opened
and we are really strong on that.”
The
solution
was
practical
the gym showers early.” Jacqui says the trials have created the control and flexibility to respond to what young people need, which is often quite basic – such as food, transport or hygiene. “It’s so much less prescriptive. If we see a need or we find we’re not meeting a need, we can shift and do something new.”
Monique says: “Two years ago we
A passionate advocate for Levin’s young people, Mayor Brendan Duffy says
»» dance workshops for young people who would not normally get the opportunity »» a drinking fountain at the Levin Skate park so that less young people shoplift drinks
would have said we were collaborating,
»» before-school gym sessions for boys
but it was nothing like the meaningful
»» afternoon programmes which offer a
collaboration we’ve been able to achieve
variety of experiences from cooking to
with the trial.”
outdoor adventure to career education
Meeting many needs In addition to the youth co-ordinator roles, many new projects have emerged to
Teamwork at every level
»» basketball teams
meet young people’s needs. They include: »» three new centres for study after school with a qualified tutor. »» a truancy-free zone in the central
»» the Youth Activation Fund, so that money does not stand in the way of young people being active and taking part in sport.
The right support Recently, Jacqui received an email from a sole mother of five, whose
before the trials the council and other
business district supported by retailers
sons had received $60 from the Youth
agencies were working together, but at
and other businesses.
Activation Fund. This modest amount
times it was “mind-numbingly difficult”. Brendan leads the Social Sector
»» short-term courses and programmes
of money made a huge difference in a
such as the Growing Men of Character
family with a limited income for it meant
Trials’ Local Governance Group which
course at Makahika Outdoor Pursuits
the boys could play canoe polo. With a
works closely with Life to the Max. The
Centre and anger management for
positive coach, the boys thrived. Their
group includes school principals, high-
nine to 12-year-old boys
mother wrote:
level local leaders from the Ministries
»» a youth health service
of Social Development, Education and
»» a learner drivers’ workshop
Justice, the Police, the mid-central
»» the Max Up programme with Work
District Health Board, Mäori leaders and
and Income, which helps disengaged
youth organisations.
young people improve their reading,
Brendan says the ability for Life to the Max to work directly with top tier leaders has helped break down barriers and open doors to teamwork across organisations.
writing and maths so they can re-join school, training or work »» career trips to show young people possibilities for future work or training
Jake’s* whole outlook on life is completely different. He is positive, friendly, caring and an amazing young man to be around. He walks with his head up, makes eye contact with adults and will engage with everyone. He is a natural at canoe polo and has been told he will go a long way with it. Ben* has a better relationship with Jake as they work alongside each other in the teams. I quite often find them talking about different techniques to try. His sisters have a better relationship with Jake as well. They want to be around him instead of being scared of him. Our house has a completely different vibe. It’s still a noisy house, but it’s full of laughter instead of yelling. I am close to tears as I write, I am so proud of the young men they have become.
Results Two years down the track, Levin can point to good results in all its main focus areas. All 87 milestones that were part of the Youth Plan have been met, and the 20 RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
Spot light on Cent r al
Government has extended the trial for a
physical challenges, mentoring and goal
further 16 months to June 2014.
setting.
Monique Davidson says the trial shows
Academic
achievers
and
student
that local organisations and people have
leaders mixed with high risk and middle-
the vision and the ability to take the
of-the-road kids, with the idea that in
initiative, respond to community needs and work together towards common aims. The goal for the next 16 months is to make it sustainable for a long time into the future.
a levelling, disciplined and challenging environment everyone has things to learn about themselves and other people. Stephanie spoke at the completion ceremony, saying: Not long ago I was drifting. I had no
The start of a new journey Back to the two young women introduced at the beginning of the
I am less afraid of wasting people’s time needing advice.
direction whatsoever. My general plan was to procrastinate until my worry went away. My life plan ended about a week after school finished.
I have been able to ask for help about my future. I have stopped drifting and am plotting a course for my future in the real world. Tennessee also spoke, saying: We were pushed to our limits. In the beginning I didn’t do much – I just moaned. Now I just do it. I give an honest attempt. I found it a challenge to work with people I don’t hang out with. But I did. I thought it would be weird working alongside the Police and Fire Brigade, but it
I’ve never held much faith in people, but
turns out they are not bad. There have been
Stephanie, Tennessee and 23 other
every person in the programme helped me
struggles – getting up early, being nice all
Levin teenagers took part in a new
in some way, be it a helping hand or simply
the time. But I have overcome those as well
showing me how much harder I could
as I could.
article:
programme called CACTUS (Combined Adolescent &
Challenge
Support).
Constable
Training
Neighbourhood
Fiona
Barker
led
Unit Police the
programme, supported by 18 trainers from the Police, Fire Brigade, probation staff and community volunteers. At 5.45am, three mornings a week for two months, the teenagers turned up at Waiopehu College for three hours of
push myself just by pushing themselves.
I am more motivated to go to school and
The past eight weeks were gruelling. It
learn. I am sort of nicer to people and not so
was humbling to be constantly overtaken.
short-tempered. I am fitter and more active.
But I gradually realised the real reason I
Surprisingly, I managed to get up early. I
was there was not so much physical, but
used to come to school around interval.
mental. I gained empathy, confidence and most importantly a voice.
I want to stay this changed person. I’m not perfect but it’s the start of a new journey.
I am more confident that I won’t be shot down for speaking up.
*Some names have been changed
Photo courtesy of Horowhenua Mail
RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 21
Spot light on Canter bur y
When it came to commitment and courage to support their communities through earthquakes and destruction, Christchurch’s young people proved that they were up to the task.
22 RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
Canterbury Youth in the city
Key facts
When it came to commitment and courage to support their communities through earthquakes and destruction, Christchurch’s young people
Youth employment:
proved that they were up to the task. Now social service organisations are working together to make sure that young people in Canterbury are part of Christchurch’s future, from planning the rebuild to working on – and in – the city.
Youth Shop
Twenty-year-old Hamish Ainsley is a Ministry
To focus on work, training and career
of Youth Development National Youth Advisor
opportunities for youth, Work and Income has
and Aotearoa Youth Voices member. He says
created a new way of engaging with young
young people need to be part of decision-
people in Christchurch. It has set up a Youth
making for the future and should not be afraid
Shop as part of a new central city Youth Hub.
to contribute.
Work and Income’s Regional Director for
The last thing he wants is for Christchurch
Canterbury Shane Carter says, “The Youth
to become known as “that place where it really
Shop is focused on employment, but it is
sucks to live”.
situated amongst other organisations, who
“Many young people are leaving the city
focus on supporting young people with physical
taking their futures elsewhere. If Christchurch
and mental health services, social services,
is to retain its young people, then they must
counselling, housing, volunteering and getting
have a say in what is to happen.”
involved in community action.”
Numbers of young people on Unemployment Benefit have fallen in Canterbury. In mid-December there were 984 young people on Unemployment Benefit compared to 1843 at the same time last year – a decrease of 47 per cent.
Youth Hub: Learn more at www.youthhub.org.nz. To find out about Work and Income’s Youth Shop and other Youth Hub services, click on the Organisations tab on the Youth Hub website.
Aotearoa Youth Voices: Learn more at www.myd.govt.nz/haveyour-say/ayv-network.html
Youth workers, organisations and young
The one-stop approach has contributed
people have teamed up to make sure young
to decreasing numbers of young people on
At a recent concert for youth volunteers,
people can contribute to the recovery of
Unemployment Benefit, and made sure that
250 more young people signed up to the
greater Christchurch.
school and tertiary leavers are connected with
Aotearoa Youth Voices Network.
The key priorities are to ensure young people have an active voice, to build capacity in groups working with young people, to focus on jobs and careers for young people in the city and to develop a youth charter.
training and work opportunities.
Youth Voices
Youth Voices member Hamish says one clear issue is that there needs to be more to do in Christchurch. Comparing
Christchurch
with
Osaka,
MYD is also promoting its Aotearoa Youth
Japan where he has recently spent time,
The project is supported by the Ministry of
Voices Network to give young people input
Hamish says: “There are trains, restaurants,
Youth Development (MYD), the Canterbury
into decisions that are being made about the
karaoke, tonnes of cafes and places to hang
Earthquake
rebuild, including the city design and youth-
out, but also museums, shrines and other
friendly spaces.
cheap attractions.
the
Recovery
Christchurch
Authority City,
(CERA),
Selwyn
and
Waimakariri District Councils, the Wayne
Aotearoa Youth Voices members get the
“Christchurch is the garden city with
Francis Charitable Trust and the Canterbury
chance to represent the voice of young people
great parks and beaches and we should build
Youth Workers Collective.
in government and community decision-making.
on that.” RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 23
Spot light on Canter bur y
The incurable networker Whether he’s helping businesses, employers, young people, gang members or newly–released prisoners it’s all about PETE VINK’S gift for gaining trust and building relationships. Pete, who is currently an Enterprising Communities Advisor for the Canterbury Labour
Market
Team,
has
been
empowering people and communities for over 25 years. His
lifetime
contribution
was
recognised late last year with an award from the Orangi Kaupapa Trust, for work which improves the quality of life in New Zealand. Friends, colleagues, representatives from NGOs and charities gathered to celebrate his achievement, but Pete says it is more about the people who have given to him over the years.
Pete works two days a week with
There are also teams from around the
“I’ve always been open to learning
Enterprise North Canterbury supporting
country setting up in Kaiapoi who have
from others and I’ve been lucky to
businesses in his home town of Kaiapoi.
come to help with the rebuild.”
have crossed paths with some great
“It is wonderful to be working
The rest of Pete’s working week is
people who have been generous with
in Kaiapoi – I grew up here and I know
spent working with prisoners on a Work
their wisdom.”
the old business families.”
and Income reintegration programme.
Starting with a gardening scheme
Two and a half years after the first Canterbury
earthquake,
He meets with prisoners before they are released and tries to find work for them
for young unemployed, Pete has been
destructive
involved with working with gangs (Group
Kaiapoi is rebuilding, physically and
Employment Liaison Scheme), managing
emotionally. Nine hundred houses in
An ‘incurable networker’, Pete has
the YMCA lifeskills programmes, the
the area were red-zoned which meant
connected with community organisations
Community Employment Group and
people moved away.
and other agencies that work with
“It’s been hard on the businesses,
Enterprising Communities.
when they get out.
prisoners to try and establish a more
These days Pete works for Work and
losing their old and valued customers.
Income and splits his week between
I’ve been helping with practical things
integrated way of working. “We are looking for synergies, so we
supporting
business
like applying for financial support,
don’t stomp on each other’s ground.
community and helping newly released
teaming businesses up with mentors
We need to be working to our strengths
prisoners find work.
and coaches, and helping employers find
and acknowledging the expertise of
Pete's manager, Jo Aldridge, Regional
suitable staff. But most importantly I’ve
others to get the best outcomes for the
Labour Market Manager, says he has
been a familiar face from a government
people we work with,” says Pete.
a passion and heart for community
agency that cares about their future.”
the
Kaiapoi
development. “His ability to build relationships is what makes the difference. He goes over and above for the people he works
21-acre block 45 kilometres north of
have been approved for subdivision and
Christchurch. He grows organic beef
development.
and lamb, fulfilling a childhood dream of
“Meanwhile
we’ve
got
new
with – he’s a really trusted and valued
businesses moving to Kaiapoi because
member of the community,” says Jo.
of a shortage of space in Christchurch.
24 RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
In his spare time Pete tends a
Looking ahead, 6,000 new sections
being a farmer. “It’s a great working life with never a dull moment!”
Spot light on Canter bur y
Rockers of Ages It started with a call to sing your way
for most people, even those who have sung before. “When you sing in harmony you feel a sense of connection with everyone creating the sound,” says Nikki. Connection is a vital component. As
on, the Rockers of Ages choirs are still
well as singing, each practise includes
shaking it up.
time where members take turns to share
isolated after the earthquakes in the
friend asked her to help with transport. “I was hooked within five minutes,” says Annie.
out of the earthquake blues. Two years
With many older people becoming
Annie Hayward became a part of the St Albans’ choir by accident when a
a thought or story, and there is always a break for a cup of tea and a chat.
Annie has been around music for 70 years, playing piano and the church organ, and accompanying school choirs. “But do you know, no one has ever asked me to sing!” “Now I sit in the soprano line with
hard-hit Christchurch suburb of Aranui,
“Coming together for singing and
the Muse Community Music Trust came
sharing stories gives everyone a sense of
up with the idea of a choir.
belonging, and makes you feel like you
learning new music. It also gives her
are not alone,” says Nikki.
some ‘cred’ with her grandchildren.
Now four choirs for older people are rocking away in Linwood, St Albans, Sumner and Kaiapoi.
relishes
the
challenge
of
“I was humming something the other
Nikki are skilled in group facilitation
day and my grandson said ‘Granny –
and
gosh, you know that song!’”
inclusive,
relaxed
auditions, no pressure,” says Muse choir
professional
approach
is
leader Nikki Berry.
the
“We have people who have been in
Annie
Choir leaders Gary Easterbrook and their
“The choirs are open to everyone - no
delightful people on either side of me.”
success
Diane
of
the
Shannon,
critical
choirs,
Health
and to says
Promoter
choirs and people who have never sung
with Community and Public Health.
before in their life. There are people
“Gary and Nikki bring both musical
singing who have Parkinson’s or who
excellence
have had a stroke.”
to ageing to the choirs. They make everyone
a
positive
feels
attitude
welcome
Community College with support from Community and Public Health CDHB, Wellbeing North Canterbury and Sumner Bays Union Trust. With membership tipping 85, Nikki is delighted with the success.
and
“For older people the choirs have
the world as well as modern music.
included and that connection, along
moved from earthquake recovery to
Not just a sing-along, the choirs sing in
with the singing, lifts the spirits,”
being a positive ongoing experience
four-part harmony - a new experience
says Diane.
in themselves,” says Nikki.
The groups learn songs from around
sure
and
The choirs are funded by donations and by ACE funding through Hagley
The Muse is a charitable trust based in Christchurch. Learn more about the Rockers of Ages choir and other activities offered through the Muse Community Music Trust at www.themuse.org.nz
RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 25
Spot light on Waikato
The economic climate of the past few years has made it especially hard for taiohi (youth) to become financially independent.
26 RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
Waikato Supporting youth to succeed Waikato’s two new Youth Service providers
“They can face various challenges in their
are very different but they have the same goal
lives and we need to find out what those are
– seeing disengaged teenagers get a decent
before we can figure out how we can best
start in life by helping them into education,
support the young person to help them through.”
training or work.
Jo Graham, Manager for Youth Services at
Te Wänanga O Aotearoa is one of New
Te Wänanga O Aotearoa, says being an
Zealand’s largest tertiary education providers,
education provider is a strength for the young
while the other provider, Whai Marama Youth
people they work with.
Connex, is a youth-focused organisation that
“We
are
uniquely
placed
to
deliver
delivers a range of services to support young
education alongside social development, with
people in the Waikato.
the benefits of each complementing the other.
Whai Marama Youth Connex Team Leader
“We provide full, wrap-around services
Kura Simpson says the economic climate
under one roof that have the potential to
of the past few years has made it especially
deliver great support to youth as they consider
hard for taiohi (youth) to become financially
their future options,” says Jo.
independent. Whai Marama Youth Connex has 12 fulltime coaches who go out into the community
A lot of the work Te Wänanga does with young people is to help them get foundational skills that they can build on in the future.
to meet with young people. They see how easy
They work with young people to improve
it is for young people to disengage; to stop
literacy and numeracy skills, achieve the NCEA
trying to find work or training and give up on
level of study they need to get into further
their dreams.
training or apprenticeships – even something as
“Starting out with no or minimal qualifications,
simple as getting a drivers licence can make all
budgeting and work experience, makes it
the difference when you want to be a mechanic.
extremely difficult for our young people to
Te Wänanga is also a provider of the
get a decent start in life.”
government’s Youth Guarantee initiative which
Youth coach Nicole Ladd says she loves
links neatly for Youth Service clients. It offers
her job and is committed to helping rangatahi
programmes from arts and computing to
youth reach their potential. She says working
sports and forestry for 16 and 17-year-olds
with young people requires a range of skills, the
who need alternative options to mainstream
most important of which is listening.
secondary schooling.
Key facts Youth Service
is a new way of working with high-risk disengaged young people to help them back into education, training or work. It involves one-to-one support with each young person to help them make plans and overcome obstacles.
Waikato’s youth population as at 2006 Census was 28,938, with young Ma-ori making up 8,019 of that number.
More than 1,260 Waikato 16 and 17-year-olds, who were disengaged from education, training or work, are now involved with Youth Service.
Around 300 young Waikato people who are receiving the Young Parent Payment or a Youth Payment are also taking part in Youth Service.
Learn more about Youth Service at www.youthservice.govt.nz
RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 27
Spot light on Waikato
Creating new help for jobseekers For almost twenty years, NEVILLE WILLIAMS has been helping people into work. Now he has used that experience to create new ways of helping people get back into work. From his early days as an employment advisor
with
the
New
Zealand
Employment Service on the Coromandel, Neville has understood that work can be the solution to a lot of issues. “Being in work is much more than just earning money – it is a circuit breaker
“I’ve worked with a great team in
done all the preparatory work. That way
National Office. The programme of
we can make the best use of their time
“Working is good for your health,
change involves all parts of the Ministry
with the case manager.”
your self-esteem and provides a positive
and a lot of very talented people. I was
While his time developing the new
role model for the family.
only one small component in a huge
model of working has finished, Neville
team that is doing all the work.”
is back in the Waikato overseeing its
for so many things,” says Neville.
“I
have
always
found
it
really
rewarding being able to help people
The
October
2012
changes
to
implementation.
overcome their challenges and barriers
the welfare system saw new work
“I’m excited about this next part
and get into work.”
obligations applying to a large number of
of the challenge – making sure from a
Neville is Work and Income’s Regional
people receiving benefits. These changes
delivery perspective that the new model
Director Waikato, but for eight months
are designed to encourage and support
works well for our clients."
last year he was working in Wellington on
more people into work, recognising that
Neville has seen a lot a change over
the substantial package of changes that
paid work provides a better future for
his time working for the Ministry. He
make up the Government’s programme
people and their families.
was acting manager in Paeroa when the
of welfare reform.
“In October we significantly increased
Employment Service and Income Support
“I worked on the design of the new
the number of clients who were required
service model - looking at the way we
to be looking for work. Our way of working
“But what doesn’t change is the
assess people before they go on a benefit
has to change as our clients’ needs change
feeling you get when you help someone
and then how we work with them to find
so we can focus on supporting people into
into a job and you can see the difference
work once they are receiving a benefit,”
work,” says Neville.
it will make in their life."
says Neville.
“We are getting the Contact Centre
“It has certainly been challenging
more involved in working with people
to take a concept and develop all the
before they apply for a benefit. By the
processes required to get the new service
time a person makes an appointment
up and running.
to see a case manager they should have
28 RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
merged in the late nineties.
Learn more about welfare reform at www.msd.govt.nz/about-msd-and-ourwork/work-programmes/welfare-reform
Spot light on Waikato
“All the seminars I had to attend, all the appointments I had to sit through with my case manager – I always thought ‘would this really make a difference?’ “It certainly has and I’m grateful that I was given this chance. I would like to thank my Wintec tutors and more importantly Livingstone Building, especially my bosses who have been very supportive.” Used to sleeping-in every day, Jacob says, “I’m really enjoying a reason to getting up before 11.00am. “I was so used to staring at the walls at home. Now I have something that keeps me active, and that gives me a lot more money than what I was receiving on a benefit. “It’s not the physical part of the job that’s hard; it’s more that I have to tell myself to keep on doing the right thing, keep the right mental attitude.” Jacob hopes to have his own building business one day. He has a couple of words for other young people on a benefit who don’t think they will find work. If the builder likes what they see, they
Building a future
will offer the trainee a job at the end of
A group of Waikato builders is working with Wintec and Work and Income to help people get a start in the construction industry. The Future Build Waikato programme sees
participants
combine
study
at Wintec with work placement with one of 18 local builders over a period of eight weeks.
the eight weeks. Livingstone Building is one of the employers taking part in the programme.
“It can be done. If I can do it then anyone can, you have to make the most of your chances.” Three courses were completed in 2012. The first course had six out of
Operations Manager Marcel Amess is
nine participants move into employment,
enthusiastic about the results.
with five of the six securing building
“We’ve taken on two participants
apprenticeships.
The
second
course
so far and I’m keen to get one in the
achieved similar results but the third
next intake.
course really nailed it with nine of the
“I’ve been particularly impressed with
Wintec’s training includes the practical
the process to ensure the right types of
stuff like power tool use, joinery,
people are put forward. Their attitudes
finishing, and first aid, as well as life skills
are positive; they actually want to work
like time management and attitudes
and they’re producing good results,”
to learning.
says Marcel.
10 participants getting apprenticeships. Due to the success of the programme, a fourth course is planned for 2013.
Learn more about partnering
When they are with the builder, the
Nineteen-year-old Jacob was one of
participants get the chance to put their
the young people taken on by Livingstone
work at www.workandincome.govt.
training into practice and learn the trade
Building and he is proud of himself and
nz/business/develop-your-workforce/
on the job.
the job he has.
industry-partnerships
with industry to get people into
RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 29
Southern
Children’s Day was celebrated in Gore with fantastic free, fun activities organised by Child,
Youth and Family and local community and church groups. The Ready, Steady, Work programme is getting unemployed Balclutha youth into work. Under the umbrella of the Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs the programme has helped 25 young people develop skills and strategies to help them find work, resulting in 18 securing employment and the remaining seven being encouraged and mentored by members of the community. Careers in hospitality are on the menu for young people thanks to a partnership between Work and Income and the Invercargill Licensing Trust. ILT has a well-established on-the-job trainee management programme which is being used to help suitable young people join the hospitality industry and forge a career in management.
Canterbury
Affirm, Aranui Family Festival took place in December 2012 and the Ministry was there with
a stand focusing on employment and supporting families to do well. Linwood Youth Festival Experience (LYFE) brings a suburban fair atmosphere to Linwood Park on 17 March. The festival focuses on young people and families, and the Ministry will be there to talk about training, employment, and wellbeing for young people. Canterbury Youth Shop and Limited Service Volunteer staff will be available to discuss their services. Child, Youth and Family joined in on Children’s Day at the Groynes Reserve in Christchurch. The free event included games, sports activities, bouncy castles and much more. It was supported by the Co-Operative Bank, Christchurch City Council, Child, Youth and Family and a variety of other community and government organisations.
Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast
Getting back into the workforce can be challenging but courses are available around
the Nelson/Tasman, Marlborough, Buller and West Coast regions. Funded by Work and Income, courses will help with things like boosting your confidence and skills, putting a CV together and how to be your best at a job interview. To find out more contact Work and Income on 0800 599 009 or talk to a case manager. The Police Child Protection team has been officially welcomed as they join Nelson’s Child, Youth and Family team. Having the Child Protection Team onsite offers important benefits for working together in response to reports of child abuse and preventing re-victimisation.
30 RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
Wellington
Creekfest is on again in Porirua this month. Health messages are promoted by stalls and
sports competitions with live entertainment helping to attract the crowds. Porirua Child, Youth and Family will be part of the fun with giveaways for the kids. Work and Income held a youth expo in Upper Hutt where 65 young people were encouraged to enrol in a training course or apply for job vacancies. The expo emphasised that young people need to get skills that will lead to sustainable employment. Porirua Community Link Open Day was an opportunity for the public to come into the site and talk to the Community Link partners. Over 25 partners had stands at the open day and the event was well received by the community.
Central Streamlining seasonal opportunities in Manawatu, Wairarapa, Horowhenua and Tararua has placed more than 200 people into seasonal work. Strengthened relationships with employers and a co-ordinated response to seasonal demands have meant better outcomes for our clients. Promoting aged care as a rewarding career choice on the Kapiti Coast is the aim of a local newspaper campaign led by Work and Income. Articles featuring ex-Work and Income clients who have chosen to work in aged care are part of a strategy to address the forecasted shortage of aged carers in the district. Children’s Day was celebrated across the region with lots of fun and entertainment including the ever popular bouncy castles and sausage sizzles. Child, Youth and Family was involved in community events all around the region.
East Coast
Work and Income health and disability advisors recently held a series of forums with Hawke’s
Bay and Tairawhiti District Health Board medical practitioners and social workers to give an overview of our role in supporting clients and families experiencing ill health or disability. Napier Connects is a programme initiated by the Minister for Senior Citizens, Jo Goodhew, to encourage greater participation by older people in the community. The Ministry’s Senior Services team is working with Age Concern and the Napier City Council on projects to make the most of the valuable contributions older people make to our community, neighbourhoods and families. Safe Communities accreditation was awarded to the Hastings District Council in December as a result of an application by the Ministry, ACC, Hawke’s Bay District Health Board and the Hastings District Council.
Taranaki, King Country and Whanganui
The Bumps, Bubs and Beyond Parenting Expo will be held in New Plymouth on 23 and 24 March.
Child, Youth and Family will be there providing information on services available to parents and caregivers. White Ribbon Day was marked with a difference in New Plymouth. Twenty-five teams competed in a relay down the main street to raise awareness that family violence and violence against women are not okay! We are looking forward to building on the event in 2013. A business survey carried out in Taranaki showed that 70 employers want more information about Work and Income recruitment services, with a number needing to recruit staff immediately. Work brokers have been busy responding to employers with the aim of matching clients and vacancies so we can get more Taranaki people into work. RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 31
Bay of Plenty
The Ministry of Youth Development in the Bay of Plenty is co-ordinating the New Zealand side
of the 25th Ship for World Youth, a unique international exchange programme sponsored by the Cabinet Office of the Government of Japan. A New Zealand delegation will join 110 Japanese and approximately 100 young people from ten other countries to sail and work together for 30 days in and around Japan. The programme aims to broaden the participant’s international perspectives. Support for kiwifruit growers affected by Psa-V vine disease is available in a package that includes on a case-by-case basis, one-to-one recovery co-ordinators, provision of care by local providers focused on grower welfare initiatives, Rural Assistance Payments for growers suffering extreme hardship, and support with technology transfer and advice.
Waikato
A Careers Expo held in January saw Work and Income and Child, Youth and Family combine to
provide employment and career information to the workforce of tomorrow. The expo was sponsored by the Hamilton City Council, Porch Recording, NZMA and this year’s host, the Enderly Community Centre. Workchoice Day is held annually, linking New Zealand’s future workforce and employers and helping students learn first-hand from people employed in their field of interest. Waikato Regional office is looking forward to participating in Workchoice Day on 28 May. Child, Youth and Family need caregivers to provide a safe, stable, loving home to a child whose own home isn’t safe to live in. With around 4,000 young people in care in New Zealand, we are always looking for suitable caregivers. To find out more visit www.cyf.govt.nz
Auckland
Treasure our Children was the theme for Children’s Day, with all fourteen Child, Youth and
Family sites across Auckland getting involved. Staff took part in community events with giveaways for the kids and information on ‘the 10 things kids need most’ for adults. The Limited Service Volunteer programmes support young people to get into work or training by improving their self-discipline, confidence, motivation and initiative. The first course for 2013 got underway at Hobsonville in February. StudyLink is out in secondary schools providing information to first-time students as part of the Sussed programme.
Northland
Child, Youth and Family are hosting regular breakfast meetings with school principals
to discuss issues of concern and to share information. Eleven young people have started working for Northland territorial authorities under the Work and Income Council Cadetship Programme. The programme places 17 to 24-year-olds, into fulltime work for 42 weeks. Last year’s programme saw 87 per cent of participants moving into jobs. A pilot Skills for Industry ICT training programme in December resulted in 12 Whangarei trainees moving into work with Underground Networks carrying out the ultra- fast broadband rollout in the Ruakaka area. The ten week course supported the Government’s broadband investment while addressing skill shortages in the network construction area. 32 RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013
tips,links and news Be Heard
Rise for the iPad A digital iBook version of Rise magazine is now available for owners of the Apple iPad*. You can find it on the Apple iTunes App store if you search for Rise magazine, either from your desktop PC or Mac, or from an iPad itself. Once downloaded the Rise app will update itself when a new issue is available, but also store previous issues from #22 onwards.
Become a Youth MP Or be part of the action in the Youth Press Gallery 16 & 17 July 2013 Get involved - www.youthparliament.govt.nz
The Rise iBook contains extra features. Once downloaded and installed on your iPad, you’ll be able to flick through slideshow galleries and tap on interactive web links while on the go. It’s a whole new way to experience Rise, so visit the Apple App Store now to download the app and let us know your thoughts! The Rise iBook is the first step as we look for more ways to make Rise easier to reach and read on your mobile device, PC or laptop. * compatible with the iPad HD, the original iPad and the iPad Mini.
Public Consultation Enduring Power of Attorney – We want your views In 2008 the laws regarding enduring powers of attorney were changed to provide greater protection for the rights and interests of people unable to manage their own affairs. The Minister for Senior Citizens is looking at how well the changes are working to see if further changes are needed. For more information and to participate in the online questionnaire please visit www.msd.govt.nz or phone 0800 273 674 for a hard copy of the questionnaire.
Rise online www.msd.govt.nz/about-msd-and-our-work/publications-resources/journals-and-magazines/rise/index.html
Download past issues of Rise from the Ministry of Social Development website.
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RISE: Issue 22 – March 2013 33