NEO Notes
CONNECTING WITH YOUR COMMUNITY HELPS WELLBEING By Zandra Vaccarino
“When everything else disappears, what you’ve got are your people. It’s almost that the best group therapy is community.” Chloë Swarbrick Kia Ora I think the above statement by Chloë captures why most people found small bubbles during lockdown very challenging. I have listened to so many people in the Down syndrome community and the wider community share that not having access to their family, friends and regular activities during two lockdowns has impacted on their wellbeing. I also know that the NZDSA and regional groups have found it extremely difficult to cancel events as we know that these social events create networks and build a community which, as Chloë Swarbrick reflects, is so important because “It’s almost that the best group therapy is community”. So I would encourage you to connect to the NZDSA when we host local events and if you can’t join us, then connect through the various other avenues the NZDSA offers which includes CHAT 21 or join our various online options like NZDSA Enews, NZDSA Facebook page, or follow us on Instagram. Most importantly, please make sure you have looked at the NZDSA’s new website and that you have joined, so that you can access a range of free resources. All of these options will help you to become part of the NZDSA community and provide
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opportunities for you to connect with others in the Down syndrome community so that you can share your experiences and contribute to the wealth of knowledge that our members bring to our community. The wellbeing of our members is important to the NZDSA and we are aware that not only are people with Down syndrome struggling with their wellbeing, but their families and whānau are also struggling. This is also supported by the COVID-19 survey findings which indicated that 54% of carers have a disability or chronic condition themselves, while caring for at least one other person, so with this in mind the NZDSA has applied for funding to the Lottery COVID-19 Community Wellbeing Fund to develop a wellbeing resource for our community. We hope that our application will be supported we will keep you updated on the outcome of this funding application.
International Volunteer Day On behalf of the NZDSA I would also like to extend our appreciation and gratitude to all the past and current volunteers who through their extensive contributions continue to develop the Down syndrome community in Aotearoa. I hope that you took a moment on December 5 to celebrate International Volunteer Day.
NZDSA 2019 Annual Report The NZDSA hosted the Annual General Meeting on the 30th October in Wellington. If you would like to read the NZDSA’s Annual Report, please email me at neo@nzdsa.org.nz and I will email you a copy.
