December 2009

Hello 

The ID service report that their inaugural whanau day was a huge success.  It was held at Te Maara and the day was fine, (good old Wellington).  The families all commented that it was a lovely venue, the food was excellent and the entertainment was fantastic, with one of the clients giving a piano recital.  Carrying on with Haumietike tike news, Te Maara, The Garden, has begun to produce some excellent vegetables and there are plans to have them for sale to staff and visitors.  Both clients and staff have worked hard, in some not so great weather, and it is wonderful that they are starting to see some reward.  Haumietiketike has also welcomed 4 new nurses (3 from the new grad programme). Paul Hewitt, Mary Yates, Alan Board, and Michelle Love-Gray this month.

Welcome to other new staff, Danny Alui, Inakura Tengar, Sally Hyde and Danny Irshad. 

Diane Sadler, Nurse Leader, reports that the nineteen 2009 MH new graduates have all successfully completed the programme and all now have a Post Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Mental Health).  Next year's 2010 group of 20 have all passed state finals and are looking forward to beginning work with us in February. Sandy Smith Expert Nurse working for the ID service in Hawke's Bay, is commencing on the Nurse Practitioner pathway.  Robert Nielsen, expert nurse working for the Regional Forensic Service, has attained a Clinical Masters in Nursing with Honours from VUW.  Well done to all involved.

The second edition of the Raiha Street Journal was published recently.  This publication is very informative and interesting and the wonders of colour showcase the articles exceptionally well.  If you haven't seen it already look on the website, it will be added soon.  Take a look also at the Local MHS website.  A newsletter is planned for next year.  Any suggestions for any of the websites should be sent to Suzanne Duncan.

The volunteers for the Breakfast in schools programme were invited by the Red Cross to drinks and nibbles at Pataka to thank them for a job well done during the year.  Te Korowai-Whāriki currently has staff working at three schools.  It would be great to have more volunteers for next year so if you can spare an hour during the school term, it doesn't have to be every week, then please email Anne Le'aupepe and she will give you the contact names in the Red Cross.  This programme is supported by TKW and, with permission from your team leader, can be taken as part of your normal working day.

It is great that the weather looks set to be fine for Christmas. 

On behalf of Alison Masters, Anthony de Rose and myself, I hope that everyone has a happy holiday and thank you for a great year's work.  Also, thanks to all staff who are working with clients through the break.   See you in 2010.

Regards

Nigel Fairley, Operations Director