Family, Whanau and Disability: Recent Episodes
Family, Whanau and Disability
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Family, Whanau and Disability. This podcast features interviews with parents, professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities in New Zealand. Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with a disability.
Ursula Christel has 3 sons. In 1998 her middle son was diagnosed with Angelman Syndrome, a rare condition that affects 1:15,000 people. As life got busy, so did Ursula. She co-founded The Angelman Network, a NZ based registered charity that shares up-to-date information about Angelman Syndrome and offers support to families in New Zealand. She attended as many disability related workshops as she could to help support her family and to continue to grow her work with The Angelman Network.
Just before her son turned 18, an opportunity presented itself for her to create a PATH plan for him, in preparation for transitioning from school. This process created a vision that she could focus on and base any major decisions on. It helped her decide where she should relocate to, in order to realise the vision. Now in 2021 her son has moved into a house with friends and is living independently from Ursula, with support, to ensure he continues a good life.
Programme Synopsis
Jo talks to her guest Ursula about the Enabling Good Lives principle of beginning early. They talk about the process that Ursula undertook to create a vision for her son's future that would ultimately create a 7-year plan for her son that would result in him living independently in a house nearby, with friends. They discuss the fact that by planning early for her son's future meant that she was able to make decisions easily, as she had a clear goal that they were heading towards.
Links
- Angelman Network
- Rodney Inclusive Communities
- Imagine Better - Developing a Vision for the future
- Jane Bawden former Parent to Parent CEO video on her journey
Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc - Enabling Good Lives principles
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Presenters: Jo Hannah
Produced by Parent to Parent NZ
Guests: Jo Ellis
Jo Ellis is a single mum to Harvey, an enthusiastic, inquisitive teenage boy that was born with Cri Du Chat Syndrome. Prior to Harvey being born, Jo had lived overseas but returned to her hometown in New Zealand to set up a new life for her and Harvey not long after he was born. Jo has navigated the world of disabilities with her son for 15 years, and over this time she has purposely built relationships with those around her to help build support not only for Harvey but also herself. She is a strong believer in the importance of connection and building solid foundations to thrive. She knows it is not always easy to make connections and that it is something you need to work at. She understands first-hand what a difference it can be to surrounding yourself with people that are truly there for you and your child.
Programme Synopsis
Jo talks to her guest Jo about relationship building and why it is important to build and maintain strong relationships and connections with the wider community, whanau and any providers that come into your life to offer support for your family
Links
- Cri du Chat Support Group NZ
- Altogether Autism article on Circle of Support
- Talking about Surrounding Yourself with support - Care Matters
- Parent to Parent's Support Parent Service
- Parent to Parent's information on Support groups
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Enabling Good Lives principles
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Presenters: Jo Hannah
Produced by Parent to Parent NZ
Guests: Frian Wadia
Frian Wadia is a mother of 3 lovely boys 16yrs, 14yrs and 12yrs old, all with varying disabilities and learning needs. Through her experiences within the education and health systems, she has become a passionate advocate for creating systemic change to ensure inclusion and enabling a meaningful dignified life for all individuals with disabilities. She is particularly interested in the creation of a truly inclusive education system.
Her constant endeavours are aimed at empowering families and disabled people; improving systems, policies and legislation to ensure disabled children’s rights are upheld; and equity is ensured for all children irrespective of their abilities, socioeconomic status, neurodiversity and any other challenges.
Programme Synopsis
Jo talks to Frian about what mainstream first has meant to her family and ways that other families can work with their child's school to ensure that they have an inclusive educational environment for their child.
Links
- Ministry of Education: the team that will support your child - https://parents.education.govt.nz/learning-support/learning-support-needs/the-team-that-will-support-your-child/
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- VIPS Equity in Education
- Enabling Good Lives principles
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research: Lisa Pirihi
Presenters: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by: Parent to Parent Support and Information Team
Guests
Mark Smith
Managing Director of CareerMoves
Programme Synopsis
- Louise and Mark discuss how CareerMoves support people with disabilities and employers to work together to enable independent employment opportunities.
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Career Moves NZ
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi
Presenters: Louise Ratcliffe and David Taylor
Produced by Wintec Music and Performing Arts
Guests
Peter van Vroonhoven
Peter’s connection to disability and para-sports is through his son who plays Powerchair Football.
He coordinates the sport in the Waikato and is Vice President of New Zealand Powerchair Football’s national body - https://parafedwaikato.co.nz/about-us/board/
Programme Synopsis
- Louise and David talk to Peter about how he and his son Will got involved with powerchair football and how much of a positive impact it has had on their whole family’s life.
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Parafed Waikato
- NZ Powerchair Football
- Waikato Wasps Facebook
- Intro to Powerchair football from a UK player
- Dr Michael Jeffress research paper on “Opportunities and Benefits for Powerchair users through power soccer
- Arron “Wheelz” Fotheringham
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi
Presenters: Louise Ratcliffe and David Taylor
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe with help from Wintec Music and Performing Arts
Guests
Steve Brown – ex chef, therapist with expertise in disability and autism
Phil Brown – mental health nurse
Programme Synopsis
- David and Louise talk to Steve and Phil about the work they do for families of children with autism, at the animal sanctuary in the Waikato
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Takiwatanga Sanctuary Trust
- Animal Welfare Organisations & Charities
- Otorohanga Waikato 3975
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi
Presenters: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe with help from Wintec Music and Performing Arts
Programme Synopsis
- Louise ask the Minister about what is in this new “Wellness Budget” that is going to benefit disabled people and the people who support them.
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi
Presenters: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe with help from Wintec Music and Performing Arts
Programme Synopsis
- Louise ask the Minister about what is in this new “Wellness Budget” that is going to benefit disabled people and the people who support them.
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Office for Disability Issues budget information
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi
Presenters: Louise Ratcliffe and David Taylor
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe with help from Wintec Music and Performing Arts
Programme Synopsis
- Louise and David interview the Parent to Parent Volunteer Co-ordinator Carol Armstrong about the recent SafeSquares campaign
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi
Presenters: Louise Ratcliffe and David Taylor
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe with help from Wintec Music and Performing Arts
Programme Synopsis
- Louise and David interview the Parent to Parent Volunteer Co-ordinator Carol Armstrong about the recent SafeSquares campaign.
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi
Presenters: Louise Ratcliffe and David Taylor
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe with help from Wintec Music and Performing Arts
Guests: Tiffany Wilkinson
Tiffany lives in Tauranga and works for Enrich + as a community facilitator, helping people with disabilities integrate into the community. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and a Masters in Disability and Inclusion studies, with experience working in mainstream and special education schools in both NZ and London. Tiffany has a brother with ASD and an intellectual disability, and so has been passionate about equality and inclusion from a young age.
Tiffany has been involved with Parent to Parent’s SibSupport programme since she was 18 and is a member of the SAMS board. She lives next door to her brother and helps care for him 2-3 times a week. In her spare time she works as an extra for TV and loves musical theatre, particularly singing
Programme Synopsis
- Louise and David discuss the issues of planning for the future when you have children with special needs and what you might need to consider
- Louise and David talk to Tiffany Wilkinson about what she and her family have done to plan for the future for her brother to have the best life he can.
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi
Presenters: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Wintec Music and Performing Arts
Guests: Barbara Nelson
Director, Kauri Centre
Barbara Nelson spent the last 5 years as a Liaison Teacher at Westbridge Residential School. She worked with families in their homes, helping parents to support their children getting back into school. Prior to Westbridge Barbara was Day School Principal at Salisbury Girls in Nelson for 10 years where she and the Deputy Principal developed a support programme for the girls transitioning back home, into local school and into their local community.
She is about to start a new role as Director at The Kauri Centre in Hamilton; an alternative education center where students are prepared and supported back into mainstream schooling.
Programme Synopsis
Louise asks Barbara for advice on helping children with special needs get ready to return to school after the long summer holidays
Links
- Ministry of Education: the team that will support your child - https://parents.education.govt.nz/learning-support/learning-support-needs/the-team-that-will-support-your-child/
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi
Presenters: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe with Wintec Music and Performing Arts
Programme Synopsis
- In the run-up to Christmas Louise talks through some practical ideas for managing Christmas with special-needs children, and how to minimise stress and maximise fun this holiday season
Music
“Christmas in the Summertime” by The Funky Monkeys
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi and Louise Ratcliffe
Presenter: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and Wintec Music and Performing Arts
Guests: Matthew Peppercorn
TASK Mental Wellness
Matthew has worked as a nurse for 25 years in mental health and intellectual disability. He has a IDCCR Act care manager diploma and has completed three post graduate papers. He has been integral into the planning of and restyling of both new and existing services in the care sector. He has done this both in England and NZ. He has lived in NZ for 15 years. When he isn't nursing he enjoys mountain biking, live music and gardening. He is also a free style rapper.
Programme Synopsis
- Louise finds out how anxiety presents in people, and how it differs from day-to-day stress
- Matthew gives us some practical strategies for preventing and dealing with anxiety, with
reference to Christmas and the holiday season being a particularly stressful time of year for parents.
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- TASK Mental Wellness
- Depression NZ
- Sparx online game for anxiety and depression
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi
Presenters: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Wintec Music and Performing Arts Department
Guests
Janine Morrah
Janine is Parent to Parent’s Manawatu Regional Coordinator. She is a Palmy local with strong
connections to the community through sports and teaching. Janine’s prior work history has included teaching both domestic and international Studends. She has also spent time working as a caregiver in New Zeland and the UK.
Lorna Sullivan
Lorna is the Director of Mana Whaikaha, the Manawanui prototype for the development of Enabling Good Lives.
Wendy O’Mira
Wendy is a Connector with Mana Whaikaha in the Mid Central region.
Programme Synopsis
- Louise finds out all about the new pilot programme for Enabling Good Lives - Mana Whaikaha – being rolled out in the Mid Central Region
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Mana Whaikaha
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi
Presenters: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Wintec Music and Performing Arts Department
Guests Rebecca Armstrong - Researcher
Rebecca is a researcher for Altogether Autism and Parent to Parent. Rebecca researches complex requests and consults with the Professional Expert Group (PEG). She also writes for the Altogether Autism Journal and is involved in the PRISM Professional Development Series. Rebecca completed a masters degree in Applied Psychology at the University of Waikato in 2015. Rebecca has worked with children with autism, in the school and home environment, since 2013.
Programme Synopsis
- Louise and Rebecca discuss the meaning of the social vs the medical model of disability, and what that means for how we care for people in society.
Music
By Jason Long - Senior Academic Staff Member
Programme Coordinator – Music Internship Director
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi and Carolyn Jury
Presenters: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: Ali Beasley
Ali Beasley lives in Nelson with her husband Keith and their two teenage children, George and Emilia.
Emilia was diagnosed with autism at the age of seven, which had a profound impact on the whole family. Ali has recently written a book, Emilia’s Colours, which shares the highs and lows of living with a child with a major disability in words that are frank, touching and ultimately hopeful.
Ali is an English graduate, with a background in residential social work with deaf adults in the UK, and has also worked as a Grant writer for Whenua Iti (an outward bound charity) in the Nelson region. She is a lover of the natural world (walking, yoga and Qigong) and also reading and poetry.
Ali is a fierce advocate for disability issues, and in writing Emilia’s Colours hopes to support other parents who may be struggling to cope with the unpredictable nature of life with an autistic child. She also aims to raise awareness and a better understanding of this ‘invisible’ disability.
Programme Synopsis
- Ali tells Louise all about their family journey to Emilia’s diagnosis and how it has impacted their lives
MusicTrue Colours by Cyndi Lauper
Rainbow Connection version by Gwen Stefanie
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi and Carolyn Jury
Presenters: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: Ali Beasley
Ali Beasley lives in Nelson with her husband Keith and their two teenage children, George and Emilia.
Emilia was diagnosed with autism at the age of seven, which had a profound impact on the whole family.
Ali has recently written a book, Emilia’s Colours, which shares the highs and lows of living with a child with a major disability in words that are frank, touching and ultimately hopeful.
Ali is an English graduate, with a background in residential social work with deaf adults in the UK, and has also worked as a Grant writer for Whenua Iti (an outward bound charity) in the Nelson region. She is a lover of the natural world (walking, yoga and Qigong) and also reading and poetry.
Ali is a fierce advocate for disability issues, and in writing Emilia’s Colours hopes to support other parents who may be struggling to cope with the unpredictable nature of life with an autistic child. She also aims to raise awareness and a better understanding of this ‘invisible’ disability.
Programme Synopsis
- Ali tells Louise all about their family journey to Emilia’s diagnosis and how it has impacted their lives
Music
True Colours by Cyndi Lauper
Rainbow Connection version by Gwen Stefanie
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi and Carolyn Jury
Presenters: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: Rebecca Armstrong
MAppPsy, Researcher, Parent to Parent Rebecca researches complex requests and consults with the Professional Expert Group (PEG). She also writes for the Altogether Autism Journal and is involved in the PRISM Professional Development Series. Rebecca completed a masters degree in Applied Psychology at the University of Waikato in 2015. Rebecca has worked with children with autism, in the school and home environment, since 2013
Programme Synopsis
- Self-care and self-compassion for parents
- Understanding and re-framing challenging behaviour
Music
“Working for the children” KGB
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Ross Greene – The Explosive Child:
- Livesinthebalance.org
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi and Louise Ratcliffe
Presenter: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and Wintec Music and Performing Arts
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi and Carolyn Jury
Presenter: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: David Taylor
Dad, Husband, Carer, Builder, Inventor David grew up on Waiheke Island the youngest of 4 siblings. In the 1970s, his older brother, Ken, had a motorbike accident which left him an amputee and with severe spinal injuries. Eventually, David and his wife decided to care for Ken in their own home as he needed round-the-clock care as his condition slowly deteriorated.
David cared for his brother for over 10 years, both by himself, and as Lead Carer working alongside care support agencies.
Over the years David has learned a lot about the rollercoaster of providing care for a loved one, and he has kindly agreed to share his story with us.
Programme Synopsis
- Being a carer, the support you need
- Working with agencies and hiring care support workers
- David’s story continues next week
Music
“No one’s heros” Stiff Little Fingers
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- http://www.healthvision.co.nz
- http://www.lifeplus.co.nz
- Presbeterian Support NZ
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi and Carolyn Jury
Presenter: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: Tyler Brummer
Operations and Research Lad, MyCare Tyler co-founded WeVisit along with Sam Johnson which aimed to improve the lives of elderly and young people by matching them up in mutually beneficial relationships. In 2017, they merged WeVisit with Mycare to grow and scale what they started at WeVisit and help Mycare realise its ambition of creating a community & relationship based model of home care where choice and real human connections are at the core. At Mycare Tyler leads the operations and research teams, spending much of his time listening to people who use, or could benefit from Mycare, and improving what they do all the time.
Programme Synopsis
- How MyCare works for both support workers and people looking to hire support workers
- Improving community relationships in order to improve the world
Music
“I’ll take care of you” Dixie Chicks
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- mycare.co.nz
- enablinggoodlives.co.nz
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi and Carolyn Jury
Presenter: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: Tina Lincoln
Family Member Facilitator (SAMS)
Tina has 19 years’ experience in the disability sector and has been with SAMS for 11 years. Tina believes everyone should be treated equally and have opportunities in the community. Tina has a wide range of experience – having a family member with a disability and Level 4 Certificate in Social Services. She is also a member of the National Co-design Transformation Team for Enabling Good Lives and a Co-facilitator for the mid-central Regional Leadership group. Tina lives in Fielding and enjoys her journey with her links to Te Atiawa whanau.
Programme Synopsis
- How people currently access support services and how this will change with the Disability Transformation
- Care Matters workshops and how people can get together to effect changes in their
local community - How the transformation will enable the disability community to have greater say in
what services and supports they want and how that may be a way to make mainstream businesses more accessible
Music
“Handle with Care” The Travelling Wilburys
“Friends” Elton John
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- http://www.sams.org.nz
- http://www.imaginebetter.co.nz
- http://www.enablinggoodlives.co.nz
- https://altogetherautism.org.nz
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi and Carolyn Jury
Presenter: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Programme Synopsis
- Louise discussing teaching sex ed to her own children, and how that can include discussions on consent, sexuality and disability
- A short discussion on teaching non-disabled people how to become more inclusive and
understanding of disability in the world around them.
Music
“If I had one wish” The Mutes (from Mars)
“Teach your children” Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Scarleteen.com
- All About S.E.X.: The Scarleteen Book!
- Touretteshero.com
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi and Carolyn Jury
Presenters: Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: Sue Pairaudeau
Director, MyKind MyKind director Sue Pairaudeau spent 23 years in the media as a newspaper journalist, sub-editor, and editor, and trained as a volunteer LifeLine counsellor.
That was followed by head of communications for a nationwide natural health retailer, before
choosing to work specifically for a non-profit, rather than in retail. She landed at Parent to Parent as Business Development & Communications Manager.
Sue and her husband have adult family members with various disabilities, and are family oriented – married for 7 years they have a blended family of six children ranging in age from 17 to 37, and four grandchildren. They recently started MyKind – a social and dating space for people with/without disabilities.
Programme Synopsis
- The difficulties around dating while disabled and the new MyKind website
- An excerpt from the book S.E.X. from the Scarleteen website (link below)
Music
“Take Your Mama” Scissor Sisters
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- MyKind
- All About S.E.X.: The Scarleteen Book!
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi and Carolyn Jury
Presenters: Val Ockenden and Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: Continued conversation with Julia Drury from last week
Programme Synopsis
- Excerpts From One In Five December 2014
Teaching children about the birds and the bees is often challenging. But it can be tougher
still for parents whose young people have learning difficulties. Katy Gosset from One in Five meets sexual health educator Annette Milligan who is helping those families to navigate puberty and all it brings. - The end of last weeks discussion with Julia Drury from Family Planning about talking to all young people about sex and relationships, and the resources available to support parents and schools to do that.
Music
“A kiss is not a contract” Flight of the Conchords
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- One In Five: Health Click
- http://www.healthclick.co.nz
- http://www.healthclick.co.nz/sex-smart/
- http://www.familyplanning.org.nz/advice/parents-and-carers
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi and Carolyn Jury
Presenters: Val Ockenden and Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: Julia Drury
Julia Drury is a Health Promoter for Family Planning, based in the Hamilton Office, covering the Midland region.
She supports schools, professionals, community groups and agencies with sexuality and relationships related education programmes, training and events.
In this role she promotes a positive view of sexuality so that people are able to make informed
choices and have access to accurate information, quality sexual health services and relationship education.
She has been with Family Planning for over 20 years and is passionate about all aspects of sexuality education.
Programme Synopsis
- Supporting parents and educators teaching children about sex and relationships, especially children with additional needs.
- Family Planning resources and courses.
Music
“Lets talk about sex” by Salt and Pepa
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Familyplanning
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research: Rebecca Armstrong
Presenters: Val Ockenden & Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: Denise Ives
Denise Ives has a background in teaching adults to use computers and IT project
management. She has a diploma in Breastfeeding Counselling and took a certificate in teacher aiding shortly after arriving in NZ, working as a teacher aide at a primary school. She is a full-time home-educating mum to Nash, and also has a 24 year old son and three year old granddaughter. Denise founded the charity The Breast Room in Dunedin, which provides free one-to-one counselling and support for breastfeeding Mums.
Programme Synopsis
- Trans children and neurodiversity – Nash’s story
- Gender Identity and Autism
Music
“For today I am a boy” Antony and The Johnsons
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Alphabet Soup Facebook
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research and co-ordination: Lisa Pirihi and Carolyn Jury
Presenters: Val Ockenden & Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: Mike Pulman
Mike Pulman is a 26 year old advocate, public speaker and content creator based in Hamilton. He was a 2016 Youth with Disability Award winner and has been the Guest Speaker for several events, including the Enabling Good Lives Waikato Launch. Mike believes in the power of having a dream, and one of his core values includes advocating for the rights of people in marginalised communities. His mission in life is to provide a voice to the voiceless and inspire people to believe in their inner greatness. He believes in the uniqueness of people, and says that his disability and the wheelchair he sits in will never be his defining characteristic. Mike has Spinal Muscular Atrophy and is a power chair user.
Programme Synopsis
- The rights of disabled people to have romantic and sexual relationships and the stigma attached to disabled people wanting to do so.
- How parents need to be supported in discussing sex and relationships with their children - The Whole of Life approach
Music
“Body was made” by Ezra Furman
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- realmichaelpulman.com
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research: Rebecca Armstrong
Presenters: Val Ockenden and Louise Ratcliffe
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Programme Synopsis
- Edited excerpt from One in Five programme (link below) with Wellington panel discussing disability and sexuality back in June 2008
- Introduction to Sexuality and Gender Identity discussion with Val and Louise
Music
“Sexuality” Billy Bragg
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- One in Five for June 15th 2008
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research: Rebecca Armstrong
Presenter: Val Ockenden
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: Rachel Wiltshire
Rachael Wiltshire found out she was an Aspie when she was 12, and graduated Dux of Samuel Marsden Collegiate School in 2012. Rachael has completed four years of study at university majoring in History and Earth Sciences, and is currently studying dance fulltime (or was, until she tore a ligament in her ankle- hopefully surgery will be able to fix that, and she’ll head back to dancing next year). She hopes to become a dance teacher, a secondary school teacher, or ideally, both. Rachael currently works part-time tutoring high school students and teaching dance. She particularly enjoys being a dance tutor for StarJam, a charity that provides dance and music workshops for children and young people with disabilities. Rachael tour guides at the Great War Exhibition, combining her interests in history and performance. Education and autism are two of her special interests, and she enjoys sharing her own experiences as a student in the hope that this will help others successfully navigate the education system. Rachael has presented at the Altogether Autism conferences in Auckland in 2015 and 2017.
Programme Synopsis
- Girls and women are not diagnosed with Autism as often as boys and men
- The difference in how Autism presents in girls compared to boys
- How we can support the families around these girls and women with Autism
Music
“Who I am” by Jessica Andrews
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Girls vs boys brain development, impulse control etc
- https://www.nature.com/articles/srep07272
- https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40473-015-0031-8
- http://psycnet.apa.org/record/2011-00025-004
Women on the Autism Spectrum
- Liane Holliday Wiley
- Temple Grandin
Links
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research: Rebecca Armstrong
Presenter: Val Ockenden
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: Paula Jessop and Jason Edgecombe
Paula Jessop is an autistic woman who advocates for ‘radical acceptance’ of autism as a valid type of neurological difference and supporting autistic people through strengths-based methods. She has been a member of a range of autism reference groups most recently including a Te Pou group aimed at formulating an autism skills framework for the disability workforce. Along with being a founding member of the Consumer Reference Group, Paula works with Altogether Autism in an advisory role as an autistic advocate.
Paula has strong connections with Autistic communities and works as an independent autism mentor through her own business Autism Insights as well as working for Enrich+ co-facilitating an autistic youth group and supporting disabled people living in community. Paula also gives ‘lived experience’ workshops for Altogether Autism or Autism Insights aimed at assisting parents and professionals to understand autism from ‘the inside’.
Jason Edgecombe is an entrepreneur, speaker, mentor, gamer, martial artist, medieval reenactor, husband and father and has high-functioning autism. Jason is the founder and a mentor at One Unique Minds (formerly Breaking the Label), a Tauranga-based organisation that offers one-on-one and small group mentoring and personal development to people on the autism spectrum. The aim of Jason’s peer mentoring service is not to help people manage or accept their ‘special needs’ and its limitations, but to identify and develop the strengths and amazing talents that each person on the spectrum has to offer.
Programme Synopsis
- The language around neurodiversity
- Acceptance and celebration of neurodiversity
Music
“Bird set free” by Sia
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Jason Edgecombe TedX talk
- Paula Jessop’s Blog
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research: Rebecca Armstrong
Presenter: Val Ockenden
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: Catherine Trezona M.A. Psychology (1st Hons) National manager at Altogether Autism
Catherine joined Altogether Autism as a researcher in 2014, and moved into a managerial
role in 2015. She is one of the programme developers and lead facilitators for PRISM.
Catherine takes the principle of ‘nothing about us without us’ seriously and highly values the
input of Altogether Autism’s consumer reference group. In 2016, Catherine worked with her
son Kieran, a software developer at Powershop, to offer a two-day employment skills
workshop for autistic talent, and from this small seed, the relationship between Altogether
Autism and Specialisterne Australia has developed. Catherine is determined to establish the
proven and successful Specialisterne programme into Aotearoa New Zealand and has the
backing of Life Unlimited charitable trust to achieve this.
Timothy Folkema
Timothy currently works at Progress to Health. He is a Community Support Facilitator,
specialising in advocacy, peer support and peer mentoring for autistic persons and general
support for anyone with a long-term disability. Timothy has been serving the people at
Progress to Health for near-on five years. Timothy is a passionate advocate for the Autistic
community and the Vision-Impaired/Blind community. He chairs the Hamilton speakeasy
Jazz Club, is a keyboard/piano player in a Funk-Hip-Hop band called Funk Therapy, a keen
collector, and is interested in Japanese culture. He is a graduate of Wintec, "A" student
Music Producer and also holds a Graduate Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of
Other Languages (TESOL). Timothy has previous experience with supporting Taekwon-Do for
persons with disabilities under the International Taekwon-Do Federation (HQ Austria).
Programme Synopsis
- The difficulties faced by Autistic people looking for employment
- They way companies can benefit from employing Autistic people
- Specialisterne
Music
“Just Us” by The Mutes (from Mars)
“For The Funk” by Funk Therapy
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Altogether Autism
- Specialisterne
- Progress to Health
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research: Rebecca Armstrong
Presenter: Val Ockenden
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: Joanne Dacombe
Joanne Dacombe has spent 21 years working at the Reserve Bank in the area of monetary policy. She was diagnosed with autism later in life and has a son on the Autism Spectrum. Joanne currently serves on the Board of Autism New Zealand as well as the Board of the ASK Trust, an autistic-led organisation for autistic adults.
Cat Noakes-Duncan
Cat is the mother of three beautiful children, two with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Recently Cat founded 'Spectrum Playgroup' a community playgroup for children on the autism spectrum, their siblings and families. Cat is trained in Early Childhood Education and is currently undertaking a Postgraduate Diploma in Specialist Teaching: Autism Spectrum
Disorders.
Programme Synopsis
- The difficulties parents have trying navigate the education system with an Autistic child
- Parenting a child on the Autistic Spectrum
- Inclusive Education
Music
“Same Page” Rich Austin, from Memories Forever album
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- Further information on Joanne Dacombe - https://altogetherautism.org.nz/autism-information/6433/6433/
- Autistic Burnout - https://boren.blog/2017/01/26/autistic-burnout-the-cost-ofcoping-and-passing/
- Further information on Spectrum Playgroup -
https://altogetherautism.org.nz/autism-information/6390/playgroup-providescare-support/ - https://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/ninetonoon/audio/2018617
601/spectrum-playgroup-a-special-place-for-kids-with-autism - https://www.richaustinmusic.com/index.html
- https://altogetherautism.org.nz/
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research: Rebecca Armstrong
Presenter: Val Ockenden
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests: Justine Brock
Accredited Facilitator for Vision Education and parent of five boys on the Autism Spectrum
From Vision Education website: I have been working as a literacy facilitator for Vision Education since the beginning of 2013 and as a team leader for Vision Education since 2014. I have experience working with a wide range of schools, who face a variety of complex challenges including low literacy achievement.
As a literacy facilitator, an integral part of my role is to develop and strengthen effective literacy practice across schools. In order to do so, I hold strong content knowledge and experience in many aspects of literacy practice, including but not limited to the following:
Reading
- Writing
- Oral language
- Inquiry
- Culturally Responsive Pedagogy
- Mentoring and leadership
- Building leadership capacity
- Assessment
- English Language Learning
- Inclusive education
- Digital technology
I am an accredited facilitator available for centrally funded PLD. Click here to read a summary of practice
Dr David Wales PhD
National Director of Learning Support, Ministry of Education
From Ministry of Education website: We are the Government’s lead advisor on education. Our mission is to lift aspiration and raise educational achievement for every New Zealander. Achieving this means ensuring the education system:
- Enables every child, young person and student to succeed
- Maximises the contribution education makes to the New Zealand economy
Programme Synopsis
- As part of the services Vision Education provides for schools, there is a focus on inclusive practice - particularly supporting schools to review and implement inclusive practices that meet the needs of all learners.
- Just over 25 years ago, a new vision for special education was written into law. The
Education Act was changed so that schools were required to enrol all children who came
through their doors, including those with disabilities. In 2010 the public were invited to participate in the Review of Special Education by responding to a discussion document featuring questions on special education and inclusiveness (see info below). This reviews approximately half of schools practiced inclusive education. A review in 2013 showed that 77 percent of schools identified as inclusive.
Music
“We are the same” by Mark Goffeney
Links
- bigtoerocks.com/
- facebook.com/The-Real-Mark-Goffeney-500011805726/
- education.govt.nz/ministry-of-education/specific-initiatives/learning-support/
- visioneducation.co.nz/welcome/
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research: Rebecca Armstrong
Presenter: Val Ockenden
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests:
Paula Tesoriero, MNZM Disability Rights Commissioner
Disability advocate, former Paralympian and Human Rights Commission’s Disability Rights Commissioner. Working for the rights of disabled New Zealanders, she is an amputee and a mum to a five-year-old son. Paula Tesoriero took up her three-year appointment as the Human Rights Commission’s Disability Rights Commissioner on July 31, 2017. “Ms Tesoriero has a significant record of working to increase awareness of disability issues,” Associate Justice Minister Mark Mitchell said at her appointment in June. “She is well informed on New Zealand’s international human rights standing and her legal background and understanding of the machinery of government will be advantageous in the context of the Commission’s work.” Since February 2016 Ms Tesoriero has been General Manager, Systems and Partnerships with Statistics New Zealand. From 2010-2016 she was General Manager Higher Courts with the Ministry of Justice. Ms Tesoriero created history with her world record-breaking time in the
women’s 500m cycling time trial at the Beijing Summer Paralympics in 2008, securing New Zealand’s first gold medal at the Games.
Hon Carmel Sepuloni Minister for Social Development and Disability issues
Carmel Sepuloni is our new Minister of Disability issues. Carmel is of Samoan, Tongan and NZ European descent. Born and raised in Waitara, she has lived in Auckland since 1996. Carmel has always been committed to improving social, health and educational outcomes for all New Zealanders, but has especially focused during her career on low socio-economic groups; Māori, Pacific, disabled people and sole parents. During her political career Carmel has brought to the fore the slashing of the training incentive allowance, made public the impact of cuts to ACC funding for survivors of sexual violence, campaigned for better legislation around social workers and fought for the right to privacy for social service users. As the Minister for
Social Development and Disability issues Carmel is looking forward to building a fairer welfare system that treats New Zealanders with the respect, upholds their dignity and supports them and their families to realise their potential.Outside of politics Carmel has worked broadly across the health and education sectors as a Literacy Educator with youth in West Auckland, teaching in Samoa, managing equity programmes at the University of Auckland, managing the Pacific nonregulated Pacific health research project, and acting as CEO of New Zealand’s only National Pacific health provider, Vaka Tautua.Carmel is the mother of two boys aged four and 19.
Programme Synopsis
- Understanding the role of the Disability Rights Commission, its relationship with government, its process in resolving issues and advocating for individuals and change
- Overview of government policy and initiatives in the disability space
Music
“Get up, stand up” Bob Marley
Links
- http://www.labour.org.nz/carmelsepuloni
- https://www.odi.govt.nz/nz-disability-strategy/
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research: Rebecca Armstrong
Presenter: Val Ockenden
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests
Carolyn JurySupport and Information Co-ordinator
I have been involved with Parent to Parent for 10 years, first as a requester looking for support and information, then as a volunteer support parent and now as the Support and Information Coordinator at National Office in Hamilton. I have previously worked as a medical professional, but in recent years I retrained as a counsellor, graduating in 2015 with a Bachelor of Applied Social Science from Wintec in Hamilton.
Ruth TaylorExecutive Co-ordinator
Ruth has been connected with Parent to Parent since 2008 as a programme coordinator and trainer. She is currently responsible for coordinating a range of workshops, seminars and support events, including the unique SibSupportNZ programme.
Jo EastwoodExecutive Manager
Jo is passionate about providing the right tools to help people with disabilities and health
impairments live the lives they choose. With a Diploma in Comprehensive Nursing (1989) and working as a Registered Nurse in Australia and New Zealand, Jo met her desire to help people.
Programme Synopsis
- Connecting parents - Parent to Parent operates a parent support network for families raising a child with a disability in New Zealand. We have a network of more than 600 speciallytrained volunteer support parents. We connect families with support parents who have a family member with the same/similar disability or issue. The role of the support parent is to be the ‘listening ear’ who can empathise and understand the challenges and joys of raising a child who is different.
- Sibling Support –The longest relationship a person with a disability has is with their brother and/or sister. Living with a brother or sister who has a disability can be a blessing and a challenge. The SibSupportNZ programme offers young people support to thrive in their own unique family environment through SibCamps, SibShops and SibDays. Our SibSupport programmes are run by facilitators who are assisted by leaders who have also grown up with a sibling with a disability, again sharing that ‘lived experience’ level of understanding.
- Information Service - Our dedicated research team provides free, researched, evidencebased information to families, and those involved in a family’s care, on nearly 4,000 conditions each year, from the very rare to the more common. The information is designed to be easy to understand, written in plain English (also available in different languages) and is tailor-made for your child’s individual condition or issue.
There is no limit to the number of requests a parent can make for medical conditions
themselves and related-issues, from diagnosis to adulthood. Parent to Parent can provide information for early childcare learning centres, schools, workplaces and any organisation that works with, and for, people with disabilities and health impairments.
Music
“Retail Blues” by The Mutes (from Mars)
Links
- themutes.bandcamp.com
- facebook.com/themutesfrommars
- enablinggoodlives.co.nz
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only
Research: Rebecca Armstrong
Presenter: Val Ockenden
Produced by Louise Ratcliffe and FreeFM89.0
Guests
Anne Wilkinson ONZMEnabling Good Lives (EGL)
Anne’s involvement in the sector began over 30 years ago as a parent. She has a background of working with families and for 25 years worked for and held a number of roles within Parent to Parent New Zealand. In early 2016 she resigned after 12 years as Chief Executive, but continues to be a volunteer Support Parent and member of the organisation. Anne has been involved with EGL since 2011, currently serving on the National Leadership Group and the Waikato Leadership Group. She believes disabled people have the same rights as others to have control over their lives, and that families are an integral part in achieving this.
Jacqui StokesWaikato Support Parent
“I found out about Parent to Parent when my son was diagnosed at two years old. It supported me by helping getting assessed for respite care and putting me in touch with another parent whose child had the same diagnosis. “When I moved to Hamilton I started going to coffee mornings. It was nice to chat with other mums who were going through the same things. From there I was asked to join the committee and become a Support Parent.
“Since becoming a Support Parent I have talked and listened, and even met with other
parents who have the same diagnosis as my son. I have been on and off the committee over
the years and have always been willing to support the group that help support me especially
through my son’s younger years.”
Programme Synopsis
- Introduction to Connect, Inform, Support podcast.
- A history of Parent to Parent from Anne Wilkinson who has been with the organisation for almost 30 years.
- Lived experience from Jacqui Stokes who has been actively involved as a volunteer Support Parent for 15 years.
Tune in to Parent to Parent's podcast Connect, Inform, SupportConnect, Inform, Support features interviews with professionals and specialists on disability-related topics, and is a source of information and resources for families and whānau caring for people with disabilities.
Discussion topics cover a range of subjects related to disability and special needs, such as inclusive education, supporting someone with special needs, and the challenges and triumphs of living with disability.
Links
- enablinggoodlives.co.nz
- Safesquares
- Parent to Parent New Zealand Inc
- Altogether Autism
- Care Matters or 0508 236 236 freephone service for carers
- Mana Whaikaha – MidCentral only