WITH CARERS NZ | ISSUE 43
just for you!
NEW ZEALAND
Help others, help yourself
Revive! Nurture yourself
COVID-19 WECARE.KIWI
Stay prepared Ask for help or advice Check-ins and treats!
FREE ONLINE YOGA Nikki Ralston tutorials MEAL OPTIONS Make it easy GOVERNMENT INFO Update for carers LOVELY LUNCHES Something special! IHC ART AWARDS Wonderful works TAKE CARE Recover from lockdown
GIFTS GALORE BE IN TO WIN!
Plus...
books, learning, care to cook, gardening, useful things, reader stories, gifts + more!
TUI!
Rex's healing hobby
STRAWS
Choose what works for you
New Zealand remains on alert, and Carers NZ and IHC are supporting family carers, older people, and others needing assistance to get through COVID-19. We know how important it is that every person gets the right kind of help and advice to meet their individual needs. Carers NZ has been supporting carers who assist family members who are unwell, have a chronic condition or disability, or serious injury.
IHC is one of New Zealand’s largest and oldest charities. It supports people with intellectual disabilities and families/ whānau and works alongside other not for profits including Carers NZ to deliver community-based information and services.
Need a friendly voice or a helping hand? Carers NZ For help, infopacks, and advice phone 0800 777 797 or visit www.carers.net.nz
wecare.kiwi Practical help and emotional support to help you get through COVID-19.
facebook.com/awhiathome Learn, share and connect with other families. An ongoing initiative, with IHC.
Register with wecare.kiwi - it’s free!
350,000+
social media interactions, providing emotional, social and practical support and information
1,000+
care parcels & gift cards
5,000+
support calls, emails, and snail mail provided during lockdowns
distributed during lockdowns
3,000+
100,000+
IHC’s Police vetted volunteers provide check-ins and practical help across NZ
Our special Covid-19 Family Care editions provide
volunteers
readers
information, reader gifts, and practical advice - read or download free!
We thank the Ministry of Social Development, the Health Promotion Agency, IHC, and the Nikau Foundation for making wecare.kiwi possible.
Caring for ourselves and each other We’ve learned heaps since February 2020 when COVID-19 took hold in New Zealand. It doesn’t hurt to think about lessons so far and to plan for future lockdowns, just in case. Below are ideas shared by family carers, older people, and others who reached out to wecare.kiwi For day to day updates about COVID-19, visit www.covid19.govt.nz
Think about having a small amount of essentials should NZ go into lockdown again. Spend a bit of time reviewing the contents of your pantry, freezer, medicines, household supplies, continence and personal care items, PPE – anything you might need to get you through until replacement items are available. Buy things you will always need. It’s not about hoarding, it’s about being prepared. You may have realised hand sanitiser goes a long way, have a favourite soap for hand washing, or don’t really like some of the canned goods you bought previously. Only you know what is essential for you, but a supply of food, protective gear (masks & gloves), sanitiser and general cleaning products is always useful.
If you’re caring for someone else, you may be tired after weeks of lockdown and need some respite. Take advantage of opportunities to recharge your batteries, however that works for you. And how, with the lessons of 2020 fresh in your mind, can you plan ahead to have time out from caring to build yourself up in case there is another lockdown?
Stock up on card and board games, and hobby or art supplies. Having these helps to pass the time during lockdown, when it may be difficult to buy them online or in person, or even from TradeMe. Have some fun activities and projects ready to go!
Get better connected via technology or by reaching out to friends, whānau and neighbours in a planned way. What is the way you feel most comfortable checking in with friends and family? Is it a daily text, email or phone call, or a wave from the window to a neighbour? Some people prefer a regular phone check-in from a community service like St John’s Caring Caller or the volunteers at wecare.kiwi
If you have the means, is it time to book a haircut, a dental appointment and a general GP visit instead of putting these off if you’re busy? Lockdowns may be for a period of weeks, and it isn’t always easy to get appointments at the end of a lockdown.
Sign up for supermarket priority delivery programmes if you haven’t already. This will ensure you get access to priority delivery slots for people with health conditions or a disability. It’s better to sign up for these programmes now instead of in a crisis when there may be delays. The Student Volunteer Army offers a grocery delivery service: see sva.org.nz or call 0800 005 902.
If you are worried about bills being paid on time – is it time to set up phone or internet banking, or use these online options more than you have been?
“Thank you for the gift box of Molly Woppy biscuits sent to my daughter during lockdown. In her 44 years I have never been apart from her for so long. I had no idea how she would cope during this difficult time when she was unable to get out and about or take part in her usual activities. Fortunately she has an amazing support team. I nominated her for a wecare.kiwi gift box and she was so excited when the package arrived, she Facetimed me to show me the biscuits. She very seldom has treats like this so it was extra special for her and she loved sitting down each day with her support worker and sharing her biscuits. This care pack made a huge difference to helping her get through the lockdown.” JUDY, OTAGO
Want to help? Volunteer | Fundraise | Donate wecare.kiwi 0800 777 797 Call Healthline on 0800 358 5453 if you are concerned about COVID-19 symptoms.
The Student Volunteer Army is here to help you. Do you know that the SVA operates a grocery delivery and a technology help service you can use all year round? Our friendly volunteers would be happy to help support you: call us on 0800 005 902.
Our partnership with Young Carers also enables any student to reflect on their mahi aroha and build on it to help their career. Have a look at www.service.sva.org.nz to find out more. Visit us at www.sva.org.nz, call 0800 005 902 or email help@sva.org.nz.
feature
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this time features
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www.wecare.kiwi
One entry, all draws
Complete and return our easy entry form and you will be entered into every reader gift draw! One entry per person please. Just return your form to us and you’re in to win! SEE OUR GIFT ENTRY FORM ON PAGE 8
Reader Gifts! feature
One Entry for All Gift Draws!
Just complete and return this form and you will be entered into every draw from our latest issue! One entry per person please. We'd love to know more about what you like. Please tell us about yourself (tick any that apply)!
I am a family carer for another/others I am a 'self carer' managing my own health and disability needs I care for a child or young person with a disability I have (or assist someone who has) these conditions or health issues:
_______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ I work in health and disability I work for a community organisation I share my magazine with others (if so, how many others see your copy of Family Care: _________ )
I would most like to win these reader gifts: 1. _____________________________________________________ 2. _____________________________________________________ 3. _____________________________________________________
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regulars
IHC Art Awards Wonderful works
Cheeky Tui Rex's recovery
Positive Spin Wellbeing ideas Helping Hands All Right?
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15 16
40
Your Say Feedback
Books, Music, Film Watch, listen, learn
Useful Things
Aids, equipment, fun stuff
CareWise
Carer friendly workplaces
Find Your Centre With Nikki Ralston Make It Easy Food and meal options Bellyful Help at tough times Straws What's best for you?
Lovely Lunches Make it special! Mobile lifts in NZ?
Info for Carers Ministry of Health update
I was interested to read your article on home lifts, having recently investigated the subject myself. I have had suppliers' representatives assess the possibilities, as well as an occupational therapist. But the topography of Wellington is such that installing a lift can be quite a challenge. Besides the options mentioned in your article, I discovered a mobile stairlift made in the US but also sold on the internet in quite large numbers from China, at a fraction of the cost of the normal chair/platform lifts. However, I could find no supplier in New Zealand, so have been unable to try one out to see if I could manage it up and down the stairs, indoors and outside, that I have to negotiate with my disabled partner. Theoretically it would answer all the problems, but I wonder whether I would have the strength to guide it up and down the various sets of stairs and steps. I wonder if there are any readers who have experience using a mobile stairlift and how easy or otherwise they find JANE DUDLEY, WELLINGTON it to use. Editor: Thanks for your letter Jane! Your web link to the US supplier of the chairlift you're interested in is your best clue, as they may have an agent in New Zealand. Contact them from the website or give them a call. There are so many lift and stairlift options in NZ these days. I installed one years ago for my partner at our home in the Far North. It allowed us to stay in the home he loved. Yes, our topography can be challenging, but I encourage you to work with local suppliers - if repairs or maintenance are needed, they are nearby, and any installation is covered by a warranty. We were lucky - our Stannah stairlift worked perfectly for 20 years and was still going strong when we sold the property!
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Name ___________________________________________
www.wecare.kiwi
Physical Address __________________________________
________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ Mailing Address (if different) ________________________
FamilyCARE 5
reflections
FamilyCARE
Pillow talk Here in Auckland we're a bit mixed up as we finish the magazine. On one hand - yay! - Family Care is 14 years old. Magazines have been a casualty of the pandemic with venerable titles like the NZ Women's Weekly and the Listener disappearing overnight - we're pleased to hear they'll be back soon with new owners. We had a gap ourselves for a year, when it was hard to keep the magazine going amid other pressures and priorities. But last year we brought it back, because you wanted it - "a pillow at my back", as one reader put it. We have enjoyed bringing you every issue of Family Care over the years. What resonates looking back at your letters is the craving to feel part of a community, sharing concerns and advice and getting through things together. We need that more than ever, if Carers NZ's helpline and email hotline are anything to go by. On the other hand, we hear the frustration isolated people are feeling about the long tail of COVID-19. It's no longer about fears about accessing medicines, healthcare, postponed surgeries, or PPE. People aren't having problems with online food deliveries and they're coping with disruption to services such as respite and home support. What's still causing angst is that most human of things - in households where there is vulnerability, people are being extra careful despite relaxed risk levels, and that means they are having less social contact to keep COVID-19 at bay. It's one reason we have been really concerned about family carers. No one mentions them in press statements. No one claps for them. They've quietly picked up the responsibilities of support services that were stopped, or themselves paused services to reduce virus risks, without enough thought from 'the system' about what impacts this might have on our country's 490,000+ carers. We are so very lucky. Unlike other countries we have a chance to get in front of things and really recognise and help family carers - because what would we do without them? Carers NZ and the Carers Alliance of 50 national not for profits are certainly pushing for this support. Because it's sensible for our country and the vulnerable. Because you should know what to do and who to turn to if there are more outbreaks and you need help. Because you deserve it. A magazine won't transform your life if you are unwell, have a serious health condition or disability, and/or are caring for others. But we hope you like this latest issue. We've had lots of support to bring it to you, and couldn't have printed so many copies without the help of agencies, funders, and friends. Between issues we can share online updates, e-newsletters, and alert bulletins if we have your contact details. Stay informed and connected by sending your details to centre@carers.net.nz or call 0800 777 797. Or, complete the reader gift entry form on page 8; you'll be entered into every gift draw, and we'll be able to keep you informed. That's important these days! Meanwhile, Carers NZ is here if you need us. Warmest wishes til next time,
Photo credits, shutterstock.com unless specified otherwise: P4: Rex Auty, Benjavisa Ruangvaree Art, Anna Frajtova, Bogdan Sonjachnyj; P6: Zerbor; P7: Miwa-In-Oz, Rook76, Nataliia K, Lisa-S; P8: DONOT6_Studio; P10: Krackenimages.com, Debu55y, Javier Brosch, Sivapoom Yamasaki; P13: IHC; P18-19: Rex Auty; P21-26: Maks Narodenko, Benjavisa Ruangvaree Art; WAYHOME studio; Song_about_Summer; P28-29: Nikki Ralston; P30-34: Anna Frajtova, GoodStudio, Kitch Bain, Nadianb, Student Volunteer Army; P35: Bellyful; P36-37: Olga Dubravina; Bogdan Sonjachnyj; P40-43: Ward Family, Tama2u, Aleksandr Simonov; P50: Salena Stinchcombe.
Editor Laurie Hilsgen Contributors Rex Auty, Angelique Kasmara, Virginia Linton Advertising + Inquiries centre@carers.net.nz Phone (09) 360 7221 Publisher Family Care NZ PO Box 47385 Ponsonby, Auckland 1144 ISSN 1177-3340 Print 2230-4819 Digital Disclaimer Articles and opinions do not necessarily reflect the views of Carers NZ, Family Care, or advertisers. Winners of our giveaways will receive their gifts within 6-8 weeks of each draw. By entering a reader gift draw your details may be provided to the supplier of that gift. If you do not want your details to be provided, note this on your entry form. Copyright is owned by the creators of images and graphics used in Family Care; see individual credits below. Cover image Chris Gin, shutterstock.com Copyright Family Care. All rights reserved.
You'll find our entry form for all reader gifts on page 8! Send us your email address so we can notify you of gift draws, news, and provide a link to read Family Care online! Just complete our gift draw form on p8 and include your email address, or send your details to centre@carers.net.nz
FAMILY CARE FRIENDS
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www.wecare.kiwi
feedback
your say WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!
Share your thoughts, or ask other readers for advice. Send your comments to info@carers.net.nz, or post them to PO Box 47-385, Ponsonby 1144.
Best info ever!
I recently received the latest edition of the best ever magazine. I have been a support worker for 20 years now, and with some of your earlier issues have been able to gather more information to help my clients. Of late I have been a full-time carer for a 42 year old lady who is my friend’s daughter. She had her stroke just over a year ago and has been at home for six months. Looking back on some of your issues, the information has been paramount in helping her rehabilitate. Luckily she has a mother who is an expert in exercising the body. It amazes me how the human body works. For instance we have her up walking even though she has no feeling in her left side. I have also been involved with Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, West Auckland, and was the coordinator for the past 10 years. Having lost my husband recently I gave that position away but am still involved and that is where this edition gets passed around. Thank you so much and keep up the fantastic effort that is put into this magazine. DEBBIE HALL, EMAIL
Writing release
For about five years I was a carer in the community and grew to love my clients very much. I often started at 7am and finished 12 hours later. I had some amazing experiences with a crosssection of our community. I gave up work thinking I would have a little time off, as I got extremely tired and needed a www.wecare.kiwi
READER STORY
365 Xmas Cake My carer Margi and I found some recipes to make the traditional Christmas load lighter. This uncooked Christmas cake is a beaut. When serving I always say, “oh dear, I forgot to cook it", and the family groan and say “refresh the jokes, Mum". Enjoy! MEGAN SIMMONDS, TE PUKE
UNCOOKED CHRISTMAS CAKE
1 250g packet McVities digestive or Krispies biscuits 1 250g packet malt biscuits
1½ tsp mixed spice (or spice and essence to suit) ¾ cup icing sugar
¾ cup full cream milk powder (optional)
1 pkt Pascalls marshmallows cut with wet scissors 1 cup dried fruit mix
²/³ tin of evaporated milk (370 mls when full)
wee break. Then my husband had a serious accident at the age of 60. We did not know if he would survive. For eight years I looked after him. He never went back to work and over the years his condition deteriorated. Last year he was placed into full-time rest home care. I am relieved. It has been extremely difficult and nobody knows the problems one faces behind closed doors. I had help twice a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year and our workers were
This cake is fun to make year round. Place biscuits in a sealed plastic bag and roll to crush. Mix all ingredients. Add evaporated milk gradually. Mix to moisten. Line a sponge roll tin with cling film and leave enough to overlap the tin. Fold over the top of the mixture and press into the tin, then freeze. Remove the tin. Serve from the freezer. Keeps up to 8 weeks plus (not in our house though – too yummy)!
wonderful to me. I loved them so much and they gave me so much assistance. In the last few years I would take to my quiet place and write. I have over 500 poems and articles about the experiences I have been through, both good and bad. I absolutely love writing - I have kept these in a file and on my computer and occasionally share one or two with those who may need encouragement. It has been my outlet. HELEN BUTCHER, TAWA
Share your stories and advice with other readers! We’ll send a surprise gift for every letter we publish. Email your letters to info@carers.net.nz or post them to PO Box 47385, Ponsonby, Auckland 1144.
FamilyCARE 7
One Entry for All Gift Draws! Just complete and return this form and you will be entered into every draw from our latest issue! One entry per person please. We'd love to know more about what you like. Please tell us about yourself (tick any that apply)!
I am a family carer for another/others I am a 'self carer' managing my own health and disability needs I care for a child or young person with a disability I have (or assist someone who has) these conditions or health issues: _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ I work in health and disability I work for a community organisation I share my magazine with others (if so, how many
Fresh perspective
I just received my first copy of Family Care from the foundation that supports families with the condition my daughter has. She is only 17 months old so I've always just thought of myself as a mother. However, due to her condition, we live in isolation, I feed her through a tube, give medicines and injections frequently and visit the hospital often. We can't do most things mothers and toddlers do and there's lots of things we do that others don't have to. Receiving your magazine helped me realise I am actually a carer as well as a mother. This has helped me be kinder to myself, especially on the tough days. I really appreciated the section on self-care. It was a nice reminder and had some great fresh ideas. Funny how a different label, a new realisation can give you a fresh perspective! I'd love to receive this magazine regularly, please let me know how I can do that. TANYA, CHRISTCHURCH
Thanks for your letter Tanya and we hope your family has come safely through the COVID-19 restrictions. Anyone who wants to receive Family Care regularly can just contact us and we'll send it to you by post or, if you have an email address, electronically. To request a subscription phone 0800 777 797 or email centre@carers.net.nz
others see your copy of Family Care: _________ )
I would most like to win these reader gifts: 1. _____________________________________________________ 2. _____________________________________________________ 3. _____________________________________________________ Name ___________________________________________ Physical Address __________________________________
________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ Mailing Address (if different)_________________________
________________________________________________ ____________________________ Post Code___________
Update your details! Every form with an email address will go in the draw for a mystery prize. Email* ___________________________________________ Mobile___________________Phone___________________ * Please provide this information if you would like to receive our e-zines, bulletins, offers, and other online resources.
Email to supportteam@carers.net.nz or post to PO Box 47385, Ponsonby, Auckland 1144
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"THANKS FOR MAKING FAMILY CARE DOWNLOADABLE FOR THOSE WHO HAVE ACCESS TO REASONABLE INTERNET ACCESS AND WHO WANT TO READ IT ON THEIR DEVICES." www.wecare.kiwi
feedback
Women's work?
I just wanted to commend you on your editorial last time about paying family carers. Well said, I couldn’t agree more. If you might allow me one small criticism, sometimes it’s the male who is the caregiver and they can feel even more disenfranchised. But I agree that in the majority of cases, caring still falls to women. 10 years ago my then fit 56 year old husband had a profound stroke – no known risk factors, just cryptic clues, no definitive diagnosis. At that time we had four kids aged 8 -17, no income and a very uncertain future despite my husband having a doctorate in rehabilitation – the irony was not lost on us! It took the intervention of two MPs to get financial assistance from Work and Income as we didn’t fit a typical profile. Sorting all that out was more stressful than the bomb that dropped on us in terms of his altered health. Something we could well have done without, given all the challenges we were dealing with. Recently he had another stroke and seizure event and tests found he has had a hole in his heart since birth. It is a relief to know the cause at least. It wasn’t my cooking after all! I know your editor understands something of this journey through her own experience. My husband was discharged home late last year. I am already eligible for 25 days of carer respite per annum but have found it problematic to take it with the constraints in place. We will get some support at home but basically I will be ‘on duty’ the majority of the time
www.wecare.kiwi
and as pensioners the body doesn’t cope as well as it used to. I will make it work because as caregivers we do ... but it is easy to feel very undervalued in this role. Even more invisible than is often talked about with ageing. Please keep pressing on with your mission. It is worthy and should have been a priority in New Zealand a long time before this. Ever hopeful of a good outcome for carers and their loved ones - sending encouragement. WENDY K, E-MAIL
Thanks Wendy, all the best to you and your family. The journey to recognise carers continues ... if only progress could be faster! WITH CARERS NZ | ISSUE
We gave out the 10 magazines you sent us quickly, our Field Worker distributed them to patients and their carers. It is good to have a couple here in the office for those that call in. A lot of our members with MS (including myself) have been feeling a bit down just lately, so the article on wellbeing and selfcare was particularly helpful. WENDE, E-MAIL
Help others, help yourself
41
just for you!
NEW ZEALAND
Self Care Stay well
GIFTS GALORE
BE IN TO WIN!
, Be well
FOREST BATHING Immerse yourself HOME PRESERVING Delicious distractions
STAYING POWER Home lifts
RAISED GARDENS With NZ Gardener!
INNER HEALTH Lymph wellbeing FOR THE BIRDS Win them over
Plus...
books, learning, care to cook, gardening, useful things, reader stories, gifts + more!
FRUITFUL
The charity behind NZ’s backyard bounty
FamilyCARE 9
MONEY
Ways to make it stretch
feature LITT WAY LE S LOVETO YOU RSEL F
PRACTICE KINDNESS
Did you ever have a swear jar growing up? Try this twist - drop a coin into a jar or container every time you catch yourself having a negative or unkind thought about yourself or someone else. You can spend the money on something nice or give it to a cause you care about.
Emerge The sunny months are here!
Tying a scarf w SIMPLE PLEASURES
Taking a bit of extra care over small things can give you a boost of pride and satisfaction. Maybe it’s mastering the art of draping a scarf so it flatters you perfectly. Or crafting a beautiful note: use a good pen and nice paper, and embrace your personal handwriting style!
For more cakes in a mug recipes w
Feel good
One little thing you can do to practice self-care is put together your own emergency 'feel good' kit. Keep it handy for moments when you need to remind yourself to take a deep breath ... push the world aside ... enjoy something just for yourself. Include at least one of the following (Minties optional): Taste A favourite tea, a delicious chocolate Touch A beautiful crystal or polished rock, a mini bottle of lotion
Smell Perfume, essential oil, a lavender sachet See A favourite photo, a beautiful keepsake Hear A list of songs, an affirmation 10 FamilyCARE
Indulge
A freshly baked sweet treat doesn’t have to take long to whip up. Here’s a quick microwave recipe you can make in minutes. You’ll need a microwave safe mug. Add 2 tablespoons flour, 2 tbsp sugar, and ½ teaspoon baking powder to the mug; mix until combined. Add 4 tbsp milk, 1½ tbsp neutral oil, and ¼ tsp vanilla extract until just combined. Mix in 1 tbsp hundreds & thousands. Microwave for 45-60 seconds. Serve warm with syrup or cream.
HAPPY FEET
Place a smallish but firm ball under your bare or stockinged foot, and rock back and forth on it. Repeat with your other foot. It’s an easy way to give those tired soles a micro-pamper!
“It always seems impossible until it's done.” Nelson Mandela
www.wecare.kiwi
WELLBEING PACKAGES TO BE WON! Ree-Design’s gorgeous products contain the healing properties of magnesium chloride, amongst other beneficial ingredients such as lavender and coconut. Soothe sore muscles and cramps and get a better sleep with Magnesium Butter, or treat aches and pains with a Wellness Essential Oil Roller. All products are original recipes. Fragrance free or essential oil free options available. Learn more about Maree's products at www.ree-design.org, phone 022 043 7096 or email maree@ree-design.org
1 OF 3 REES-DESIGNS PACKAGES CONTAINING GOODIES SUCH AS LAVENDER MAGNESIUM BUTTER, OR LAVENDER, ORANGE & FRANKINCENSE MAGNESIUM OIL SPRAY, OR EUCALYPTUS & PEPPERMINT SANITISER SPRAY, WORTH $80+ EACH!
Help if you care for a friend or family member Carers NZ produces many free resources. You can find them at www.carers.net.nz or phone 0800 777 797 to order copies for yourself, or bulk copies for carers in your network. Many carers feel isolated and aren’t sure what help is out there for them. Our resources are designed specially for all carers including those supporting an older person, older carers, and young carers aged under 24.
GOLDEN GLOW
Antipodes combines the highest quality ingredients sourced from New Zealand nature with science and innovation to produce high-tech certified organic and premium formulations. Its white jasmine fragranced Blessing Anti-Pollution Light Face Serum inhibits skin cell stress, while Antipodes Kiwi Seed Gold Eye Cream is a luxurious, illuminating eye cream to brighten and perfect the delicate skin of the eyes. Revolutionary antioxidant Vinanza® grape & kiwi helps brighten the under-eye area and addresses pigmentation. Learn about these and other Antipodes skin care products at www.antipodesnature.com
2 ANTIPODES BLESSING SERUM AND KIWI SEED GOLD EYE CREAM PACKAGES TO BE WON, VALUED AT $129.50 EACH! www.wecare.kiwi
Contact Carers NZ if you need advice, have a question, or to request any of our resources. 0800 777 797 centre@carers.net.nz www.carers.net.nz facebook.com/CarersNZ facebook.com/YoungCarersNZ FamilyCARE 11
You be the judge Vote for the People’s Choice Award
For more information about the IHC Art Awards, head to: ihc.org.nz/art-awards-2020
IHC Art Awards Wonderful works
The IHC Art Awards 2020 pushed back against the restraints of lockdown as artists picked up their pens, pencils and brushes to reimagine their world. That’s not to say COVID-19 hasn’t left its mark on the annual art competition. This year there will be no national exhibition of finalists’ work and no gala night to announce the winners. But in every other respect it’s business as usual, giving artists with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to have their talent recognised, their voices heard and a means to sell their work. Entries closed on 11 September and online judging was then underway. The prize pool is inviting – $5000 for the winner, $2000 for second place and $1000 for third place and the People’s Choice award. The competition is open to New Zealanders aged 13 or over with an intellectual disability regardless of whether they use IDEA Services or Choices NZ services. IHC Art Awards 2020 has been a 'contactless' event with online judging by jewellery designer and musician Boh Runga, artist Otis Frizzell and arts and culture consultant Tim Walker. A People’s Choice award will be chosen by online voting. The top 100 artworks will be sold online. Just before the national lockdown, IHC Art Awards Ambassador and co-founder of the WORLD fashion house Dame Denise L’Estrange-Corbet visited a number of artist studios to see work in progress. But within weeks the work stopped, and the studios were closed. The association of Dame Denise with the IHC Art Awards started in 2009 when she judged the competition for the first time. In 2017 she became the IHC Art Awards Ambassador, travelling the country, meeting artists and encouraging them to work on their art. “2020 has been the most uncertain of times for everybody the world over, and that is why it is so important for us to get back to where we were as soon as we can and start doing what we do best,” Dame Denise says. “Art is a medium that makes us happy. It makes us smile, it draws us in – the colours, the textures, the thought, the inspiration behind it. It gives us questions. What was the artist thinking when they did this? What inspired them? How could they www.wecare.kiwi
This year's entries will be sold online!
Dame Denise L’Estrange-Corbet, with artists Christina Van Der Hooft, Joanna Lynskey and Jordan Chow, launch the WORLD Legacy Charity Project. make something so beautiful; I feel it talks to me? It takes us away from our day-today lives and into one of love with the arts, and the artists." “It is the highlight of my year to see what they have done, and I know the highlight of so many others who love purchasing and supporting all you amazing people." This is echoed by judge Tim Walker. “At times like these we need our artists from the IHC community more than ever – to make the art only you make. It reminds us how important making art is to life and to all of us.” Fellow judge Otis Frizzell encourages artists to continue making art for their own wellbeing. “2020 has been a really hard year. For me, one of the things that has got me through is art. Making art makes you feel good.” In 2019, 384 artists entered the competition, which was won by Auckland artist Michael Nathan with an intricately detailed drawing, Lost in Space. Michael works out of Māpura Studios, a creative space in central Auckland. Māpura Studios hosts art classes and art therapy programmes for people of all ages with intellectual disabilities, as well as the wider community. Over recent years, a number of Māpura Studios artists have been successful in the IHC Art Awards – reaching the finals and winning top prizes. Artwork by four other artists in the competition were also projected into the limelight last year. To celebrate WORLD’s 30th anniversary the fashion house launched the WORLD Legacy Charity Project focused on the IHC Art Awards. Art by Christina Van Der Hooft, Joanna
IHC Art Awards Ambassador Dame Denise L’Estrange-Corbet examines Lost in Space, a drawing by Auckland artist Michael Nathan that won the 2019 IHC Art Awards. Lynskey, Andrew Young and Jordan Chow were reproduced on reusable bags and sold throughout New Zealand, with profits going to the artists and IHC Art Awards. The bags were designed and produced by WORLD as part of the WORLD Legacy Project and sold through WORLD’s online shop. They were hot sellers in the run-up to Christmas in 2019. After judges have chosen their top 30 works in this year’s competition, People’s Choice Award voting will open from 21 October to 6 November. Winners (first, second, third and People’s Choice) will be announced on 9 November. The 26 remaining artworks will be auctioned on TradeMe the week the winners are announced. Dates are subject to change as IHC deals with the uncertainties caused by COVID-19. FamilyCARE 13
Anyone can feel lonely If you are feeling lonely, we know that’s really tough, but we’re really glad that you’re looking for information. Feeling lonely is a normal human experience but is also a sign that you want to connect with others. There are lots of things that you can do yourself that can help you to feel less lonely. Sometimes the best way to move out of loneliness is to talk to someone else or get a little help.
There are also organisations that offer support and opportunities to connect with other people. Visit the website to find out how you can become involved in the movement to end loneliness: • • • • •
Learn about loneliness and how to tackle it Sign up for our newsletter Join the coalition Share your stories Donate to support our work
If your feelings or situation are overwhelming, there are many organisations and people ready to listen.
Together we can end loneliness one person, one community, one workplace at a time.
www.letsendloneliness.co.nz
books, music, film
OUR PICKS!
Watch, listen, read, share, learn! Crip Camp trailer w CRIP CAMP: A DISABILITY REVOLUTION Disability rights activist Judy Heumann and Barack and Michelle Obama are executive producers of this film, which traces US disability rights activism in the 1970s to Camp Jened, a summer camp in the Catskill mountains for people with disabilities. Crip Camp was named by Vulture as one of the best movies of 2020 so far.
UNBREAKABLE This seven-part documentary series, funded by NZ On Air, follows a group of 12 Kiwis who have disabilities as they pursue their life goals. Finding a job, falling in love, playing sport, pursuing a musical career, and modelling are just some of the aspirations of these young people. Producer Rachel Currie says it's about "resilience and losing everything and being able to build something on that". View the series at www.tvnz.co.nz/ shows/unbreakable
MUM & DAD
Bestselling author Joanna Trollope's Mum & Dad delves into the heart of a modern family. Gus and Monica left England 25 years ago to build a vineyard and wine business in Spain. Their idyllic Mediterranean life is thrown into upheaval when Gus suffers a stroke, and their three grown-up children in London (Katie, Sebastian, and Jake) arrive at the vineyard, each with their own idea of how to handle their parents as well as the family business. It’s a given that long-simmering resentments and tensions will rise to the surface, but can family ties prove strong enough to hold them together? Trollope’s trademark wit and warmth are all in evidence in this absorbing novel. Available from bookstores, online booksellers, and The Warehouse stores, where Mum & Dad sells for $29.
1 OF 4 COPIES!
A talk with Joanna Trollope w
"It's an inspirational civil rights documentary that sounds as if it's going to be 'good for you' rather than good, but it turns out to be both." Directors Jim LeBrecht (who was born with spina bifida and appears in the film) and Nicole Newnham show how Camp Jened nurtured a sense of community that fuelled disability rights activism. Its portrayal of people determined not to be invisible celebrates the activist counterculture of the era. Streaming on Netflix now, or search YouTube to watch the trailer.
COPING WITH COVID-19
Opening Little Boxes by Kees Lodder, Cathy Casey, Manuela Bertão and Alex Casey Illustrations by Cathy Casey Each chapter in this series of reflections by three generations of a family living together during the COVID-19 lockdown is beautifully written from the perspective of a different family member, including Len the dog and Gorgeous the cat. While slim in volume, the book covers a load of issues - from the struggles of lockdown to bullying, anxiety, and grief (with a great deal of wisdom and love along the way). Opening Little Boxes is dedicated to Kee’s mother, who died in The Netherlands, age 99, from COVID-19. 10% of author royalties are given to charities supporting the homeless.
YOUR OWN COPY - 2 TO BE WON! Purchase for $20 from booksellers, or at www.fivedogsbooks.com
GIVEAWAY ENTRY FORM, PAGE 8 www.wecare.kiwi
FamilyCARE 15
Useful things
Aids, equipment, and fun stuff to help you at home or out and about
ACCESSIBLE STYLE
Christina Stephens is Australia’s newest inclusive fashion label creating pieces for women living with short and long-term disabilities including restricted movement, dexterity challenges and reduced vision. The CS Inclusive Collection puts style and fashion at the forefront. With an ‘open back’ theme that is carried throughout the range of tops and dresses, assisted and unassisted dressing is a breeze. The entire collection is made from environmental friendly bamboo, organic cotton and merino wool. Free from buttons, zips and hard trims the pieces provide freedom of movement and expression, while looking chic and polished at home or out and about. Garments cost from A$129-249, with free shipping for New Zealand orders over A$200. Phone +61 432 033 206 or view the collection at www.christinastephens.com.au
A gorgeous CS cowl neck leaf back top and matching wide leg pant outfit (Navy or Black) valued at A$378!
VEGEPOD RAISED GARDEN KITS
Self-watering technology and wicking system These raised gardening kits are a welcome addition for those who love growing their own veggies, but lack space or perhaps have mobility issues. Garden maintenance is minimal and watering is only required during the early stages of plant growth due to Vegepod's selfwatering technology and wicking system. The all-season cover accelerates plant growth and keeps bugs and birds at bay, while the waist height beds mean there’s no bending over. A perfect height for wheelchair users. With easy, portable setup, the kits are ideal for apartment dwellers, decks, and smaller spaces. Vegepod offers free programmes for educators and groups to use alongside its gardening kits! www.vegepod.co.nz
Your own Vegepod and stand worth $268
GET YOUR MICROGREENS! PLANTER KITS Microgreens are miniature, supernutritious versions of veggies like kale and rocket. Now you can grow them in your own home, thanks to Micropod’s ingenious planter kits. Just add water! The kits come with mixed seedmats, which will grow six weeks' worth of microgreens. An added bonus – they’re a perfect fit for kitchen windowsills. www.micropod.nz
1 of 6 Microgreens kits valued at $49 each!
THE ENTRY FORM FOR FAMILY CARE GIVEAWAYS IS ON PAGE 8! 16 FamilyCARE
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USEFUL COVID-19 THINGS ➔ Taking those first few steps towards better mental wellbeing can be the most difficult part of the journey. With this in mind, Just a Thought was designed for people with mild to moderate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Offering evidence-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) online, it teaches people how to control their emotions, thoughts and behaviour to improve their mental health. www.justathought.co.nz
Help for Carers! Do you support a friend or family member who is ill, has disabilities, or a chronic condition? Carers NZ offers useful information, and advice about available help around the country! We are a national not for profit that works with many other community, government, and charitable organisations to support those in caring situations. Carers NZ assists carers directly via its 0800 and email services, and acts as Secretariat for the New Zealand Carers Alliance of 50+ national not for profits who are working in unity to give carers public visibility and a voice in decision-making that affects them. Phone our National Resource Centre to request a free carer infopack or for a referral to a carer support network in your area. It's free to join our network (just call our 0800 helpline) or email centre@carers.net.nz You'll receive regular e-newsletters, email and posted updates, and we'll keep you informed about important news all carers should know about. We'll also let you know about learning and social events you might like to attend in your area, or online!
➔ KIWI INNOVATION Paladin antimicrobial face masks are made in New Zealand, offering the wearer a breathable and comfortable experience, while doing their job of keeping you safe. The Meryl® Skinlife inner contains silver microparticles which prevent bacteria from growing in the textile. The outer layer is Nuyarn Merino, a process that creates a stronger, warmer, stretchier fabric which also dries five times faster than conventional merino. The masks cost $15 or two for $25. Phone 03 308 6144, email sales@nzsock.co.nz, or visit www.nzsock.co.nz 10 Paladin merino masks to be won!!
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You might also like to check out our web space that's just for carers. Visit the site regularly to see new articles, blog posts, and helpful information to support you in your role!
Visit www.carers.net.nz
Email centre@carers.net.nz Facebook www.facebook.com/carersnz Twitter #carersnz Pinterest CarersAir
Phone Carers NZ's National Resource Centre Monday to Friday during business hours: 0800 777 797 FamilyCARE 17
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Videos of the tui in his garden w
Cheeky Tui Photographing these native birds helped Rex Auty recover after his stroke.
"A stroke is like a bolt of lightning out of the blue, I really did not see it coming," Rex says. He describes going to bed one night in February 2016 as usual. When he woke up, he could no longer use his right side. "Somehow I got downstairs to my partner Carole’s bedroom, switched the light on to wake her, and realised I could not talk." Carole instantly understood what was happening and rang for an ambulance. By the time it arrived, Rex could no longer walk or talk. He was whisked to Whangarei Hospital. Over the course of his recovery, Rex regained these abilities, although with limited functionality on his right side. 18 FamilyCARE
This meant he couldn’t hold a glass of water with his right hand, let alone use his camera. As photography was a huge part of his working life as part of his career in marketing, this discovery shook Rex to his core. "It was a big moment as it meant I could not do a simple task, and they do not make left-handed cameras!" When Rex returned to work, he’d have to take a power nap every day to recharge his brain. And there were other challenges. "There are a million little steps that make up one normal step. Walking my dog for 3km a day was a goal when I got out of hospital and this taught me to walk again and have space by myself."
"I HAVE SEEN FOUR TUI TOGETHER AT THE SAME TIME AS HEARING THE DISTINCTIVE CALL FROM THEIR SENTRY POSTS. WHETHER THIS CHANGES EVERY YEAR WITH THE PARENTS KICKING OUT THEIR YOUNGSTERS AFTER AWHILE, I DON’T KNOW."
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"I still remember throwing my shoes at the garage door and yelling at the top of my voice when I could not tie my shoelaces after five minutes of trying (I never got velcro shoes, as that would have felt like giving up)." Short-term memory loss is very hard to deal with, he says - a simple example being leaving the keys in the front door and being away for five hours. Over time, Rex's brain started rebuilding his memory banks. Being able to sleep as required helped with this, as well as spending time outdoors. "The deck of our house with the birds darting around was my happy place, as my brain felt 'fried' from my work and I needed to settle everything down again." A bird bath and sugar feeder were added to the deck to encourage visits from flocks of bird species. Rex also embarked on changing all his camera lenses to ones with image stabilisation capability, and he slowly learned to take sharp shots again. This period sparked a rebirth in Rex's photographic knowledge as he retaught himself techniques using modern photographic equipment. "I regained confidence in my general manner and realised I had to keep trying www.wecare.kiwi
at everything. It was very good for my brain to relearn photography as it is quite technical and you can see the results straightaway." "Although it’s only part of my journey, the stimulation (and despair) of taking the right shot has really helped my overall search to extract maximum potential from my new brain." It’s also led to the creation of his book,
Tui In Our Garden, a beautiful record of the birds who helped Rex during his rehabilitation journey. Rex even named some of his tui friends. "I have seen four tui together at the same time as hearing the distinctive call from their sentry posts." "Whether this changes every year with the parents kicking out the youngsters after awhile, I don’t know!"
READER GIFTS FROM REX Tui In Our Garden is a collection of beautiful photographs of the tui who regularly visit photographer Rex Auty’s Paihia backyard. The book also describes the plants and insects they snack on, the various stages of a young bird’s life, as well as information and tips about photographing birds (without overloading the reader with too much technical jargon). Capturing the images took Rex months of patience, given wildlife aren't easy to get into line for a perfect shot!
Rex's book is a great resource for bird and photography enthusiasts, as well as being a lovely reminder that beauty can be found in our own backyards. Purchase on TradeMe for $24.95.
4 copies to be won! Entry form p8. FamilyCARE 19
Carers NZ provides support and advocacy for anyone caring for friends or family members. All of our services and information are free to carers and those who support them. Please help to keep our 0800 helpline, email hotline, web and printed resources, and other services available to New Zealand’s carers at no cost. Thank you for helping us care for family carers.
Your Details Name ______________________________________________________ Email _______________________________________________________ Physical Address ___________________________________________________________________________ Phone _______________________ Postal Address (If Different) _________________________________________________________________ Mobile Phone _________________ Town/City ______________________________ Post Code ______________________________
I’d like to support family carers
One Off Donation (Donations over $5 are tax deductible) Monthly Donation (I authorise Carers NZ to make automatic deductions every month from my credit card until further notice) $25 $50 $100 $200 My Choice $ ______________________ All donations will be used to keep Carers NZ services and information free for family carers and those they support: infopacks, Family Care magazine, e-newsletters, 0800 helpline, email hotline, advocacy, and keeping carers connected via social media and in-person meetings and events.
Payment method
By cheque payable to Carers NZ By credit card: Visa Mastercard
Card number
Name on card (please print) ________________________________________________________________ Expiry ___/___ Signature _________________________________________
Or by bank deposit/internet banking Account name Carers New Zealand Trust Account no 12-3096-0298326-02 Reference Donation Would you like a copy of your receipt by email?
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Yes No
Please scan and email your completed form to centre@carers.net.nz or post it to Carers NZ, Freepost # 256234, PO Box 47-385, Ponsonby Auckland 1144 (no stamp required).
0800 777 797 l www.carers.net.nz l centre@carers.net.nz
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Positive SPIN!
The COVID-19 experience is affecting us all in different ways. Are you okay? This article is for you! By Virginia Linton How we're feeling at the moment is influenced by who's around us, what kinds of support we need, and where we live. Some of us have spent a lot of time on our own in recent months, while others have been surrounded by family and whÄ nau, home schooling several children, and dream of having some alone time! Social connection is integral to wellbeing, so it's important to do whatever you can to maintain meaningful relationships with others and with yourself. This has been difficult during pandemic restrictions, so isolation may have been a frustration if you live alone, don't live close to friends and family, or get
most of your enjoyment from looser social interactions, such as going to a weekly gettogether or club. We hope our ideas will help you reach out, connect, revive, and explore ways to enjoy life as summer approaches. We'd love to hear from readers about how they are spending their time indoors and out. Connecting with each other through Family Care is one way to feel part of a community of others going through similar experiences! Do get in touch to share your thoughts and experiences - we'll publish these in our next issue! Our contact details can be found at the front of the magazine.
FROM LONGEVITY TO EMOTIONAL WELLBEING AND SURVIVING MEDICAL EVENTS, WE ENJOY BETTER OUTCOMES IF THERE IS SOMEONE TO HUG US, CHEER US ON, LEND AN EAR, SHARE A JOKE OR A MEAL WITH.
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Self-protection
Engaging with social media and news reports can increase feelings of anxiety or stress - take care of yourself online! Use the news to stay informed, but limit your daily intake, especially with news items that increase anxiety. Feeling low? Avoid social media for a day. Engaging with those close to you via social media is fine, and can be a solace. If a message seems off, ask the person to clarify what they’re saying before responding in kind - online interactions can come across the wrong way, and escalate! Pause before you post or respond on a public forum, especially if you’re experiencing a strong emotional reaction. Is replying to a stranger online the best use of your time? What will it achieve? Keep personal information private. Don't publicly post sensitive information such as your date of birth, address or phone number.
Don't fall for scams or fake news. Keep to trusted news sources. If in doubt, Netsafe has good guidelines for helping you navigate the intricacies of the web: www.netsafe.org.nz
DON'T BE TOO TIMID AND SQUEAMISH ABOUT YOUR ACTIONS. ALL LIFE IS AN EXPERIMENT. THE MORE EXPERIMENTS YOU MAKE THE BETTER. RALPH WALDO EMERSON
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MAKE CONNECTIONS
If you or someone in your household are unwell or a bit vulnerable, you may continue to be cautious about where you go and who you interact with. This is the case for many people contacting Carers NZ's helpline and email hotline. Ease your way into the world in ways that feel comfortable. You might still want to distance at the gym or at church, but don't mind small groups with people you know well. There is no right or wrong. It's been a weird year for everyone, so do what's best for you and those you care about. Below are ideas to help you emerge from the months of worry and isolation, and to care well for yourself as we move towards summer. The warm months will bring new opportunities to be active, enjoy life, appreciate nature, and revive tired spirits!
◆ Introduce daily rituals to help
anchor yourself. A cup of coffee while reading inspirational words from a favourite book, a few stretches while taking in deep breaths, a walk along a picturesque avenue - what do you enjoy?
◆ Let go of judgement. You may
feel that you somehow ‘deserve’ to be lonely because of deficits in your personality. Curb any hurtful self-talk, and take care of yourself the way you would a friend.
◆ Be present. Accept the emotions
you are currently feeling. Then take note of your daily actions and connect them to a greater purpose, making sure to include those that may feel minor. For example, the act of washing your hands regularly can potentially save lives.
◆ Embrace small talk. A growing
body of research suggests that even trivial interactions with strangers, like chatting to supermarket cashiers or stopping to ask for directions, may strengthen feelings of connectedness to others. Set small challenges, like saying hello to
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Connect with others online w
everyone you pass in the street on a given day, or asking your neighbour if they need any help.
◆ Get to know yourself. In order to
have meaningful connections with others, you have to understand what is important to you, which in turn will help you make conscious choices about how you want to live.
◆ Give yourself a hug. 'Havening',
a self-soothing technique, can help reduce anxiety and depression by releasing oxytocin, a hormone which can help calm you. Wrap your arms around yourself and squeeze until you feel a sense of calmness.
◆ Channel yourself into creative
activities, such as cooking, gardening, or a house project. Creativity has elements of both planning and living in the moment. Seeing something take shape, whether it’s a loaf of bread or a Lego city, lessens feelings of helplessness and brings satisfaction and peace.
◆ Actively listen. Good listeners
provide a safe environment for those who are speaking, who in turn will tend to respond by opening up more. Listen to understand.
◆ Spend more time with people
who are good listeners, and less with 'vampires' who deplete your energy by only talking about themselves. It's nice to be thought of and cared about at the moment!
◆ Connect with others online.
There are many benefits to hanging out (even if it's virtually) with family, friends, and like-minded people. You can play games, join an exercise group, chat about common interests, and give or receive advice. It’s wise to seek out platforms which have a strong moderator presence and policies which align with your own moral compass. Or keep it simple - host video chats with family members. Have a theme - you could have a movie night, or Happy Hour!
◆ Spend money on experiences.
When you’re down, it can be tempting to splurge on cake, a new outfit, or a luxury item to get that instant feel-good hit. However, investing in an experience will give you long-lasting satisfaction, and the opportunity to meet others. Enrol in a woodworking course, try a wine tasting tour, join a knitters’ group.
◆ Find an online penpal. If you’re
learning a foreign language and want someone to practise it with, or are seeking a cultural exchange, Interpals might be your thing. It’s free to join: www.interpals.net
◆ Hang out with yourself! Go on
mini-adventures to new places, and get dressed up for the occasion.
FamilyCARE 23
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Keep moving
Many physical education classes have gone online to provide people with solutions to confinement. If you have active kids at home, try this one: www.playpennies.com
Journaling
“ISOLATION IS A WAY TO KNOW OURSELVES.” FRANZ KAFKA
Our days in what we fondly remember as ‘normal life’ can seem like a blur when we look back on them. Because we’re so used to waking up and knowing exactly how our day is going to take shape, most of us will turn on the autopilot and forget to switch it off. Right now, we are still figuring out how each day is going to unfold. Use this time to keep a record of your experiences. It may be a journal, a blog, photographs, a film, paintings, a short story, or poems about your life. Each individual perspective is important as we adapt to changes. Check in with others and see how they’re doing as your world takes shape through the year. If you are going to compose a journal, make it something that you are able to do easily. You shouldn’t look at this as a chore to dread, but something that gives you relief, strength, and a sense of stability in unpredictable times. What comes of your reflections now will be fun to share and look back on later!
Carers NZ Online
We have many different resources to help you move forward and have 'mini breaks' at home. Our Take 1, Take 5 Weekly Planner is a tool to help you organise regular breaks each week, while our YouTube channel has some useful clips (search for our caring@home channel to follow along with Anna Filliol's Stretch, Focus & Relax exercises, or Wayne Halkyard's Strength for Life 15 minute strength-building programme). Our Time Out Guide offers insights to help friends, families, whānau and aiga understand how important it is for those in caring roles to have regular breaks, even in the most challenging circumstances. There’s also information and ideas to initiate micro-breaks during the day as even small amounts of respite can make a big difference to how you feel about and manage caring for yourself or others. All of our resources are free to view or download at www.carers.net.nz
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Family ancestry Would you enjoy tracing your lineage? The National Library has resources available for researching family history, through genealogy websites, old newspapers, or ships’ passenger lists: www.govt.nz For those with an Auckland library card, MyHeritage is available free from home and at the library through the library website. Log in to 'My Info' to access. Other genealogy resources available through the library are The Genealogist, Find My Past, and Ancestry.com If you aren’t a member, you can sign up for a free eMembership. This gives you access not just to Ancestry.com but also ebooks, databases, enewspapers, and Beamafilm. www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz Free movies for those with a library card: www.beamafilm.com
Create a retreat
“A SEASON OF LONELINESS AND ISOLATION IS WHEN THE CATERPILLAR GETS ITS WINGS. REMEMBER THAT NEXT TIME YOU FEEL ALONE.”
Turn your home into a haven you love spending time in. Working with the basic elements of earth (plants, landscaping), water (fountains), and fire (fire pit, candles), transform your outdoor living space into a destination. The warm months are almost here, so unearth the hammock and add flowers to create a comfortable reading spot in the garden. Dining al fresco on a picnic blanket under a beach umbrella can be a great way to escape without leaving the comforts of home ... unless you want to, and now feel you can!
MANDY HALE
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feature feature Google Arts and Culture w NURTURING THOUGHTS
If the stuff churning around inside your head becomes overly negative or repetitive, it’s time to take a break. Seek connections that take you outside your own sense of self escape into a book, play music, watch a film online. Or, daydream! Letting our minds wander can often lead to renewed bursts of creativity, or help us find solutions that we’ve been unable to reach through conventional means of tackling a problem. Meditation apps such as Waking Up and Headspace offer an accessible way to get started. Have a search for them through app stores such as www.play.google.com/store To support your mental health, look for online help.
Try www.justathought.co.nz which has online courses to manage anxiety and feelings of sadness. The courses have lessons, action plans, reminders and progress tracking.
ARMCHAIR EXPERIENCES
With international travel not possible, 'augmented reality attractions' may appeal, where you can travel the world without leaving home. From walking tours around Europe, experiencing the Grand Canyon, Everest, trips back in time and to outer space, along with more traditional attractions such as rollercoasters, museums, and hotels, probably the only limit is how game you are to find and explore such experiences. Many apps to access experiences are free to download on iOS or Android for
Care for your immune system! With many of us still practicing social distancing when out in public, here’s your chance to try some garlic recipes that you’d usually avoid out of courtesy to others! Garlic is a wonder plant. Thought to be native to Siberia, but now grown in just about every corner of the world, it is known to help reduce high blood pressure, high levels of cholesterol, and hardening of the arteries. It boosts immunity and adds an intense or sweet flavour to food, depending on how you cook it.
TOUM
Two bulbs of garlic (approx 120g) ½ tsp salt 500ml vegetable oil 4 tbsp lemon juice Peel garlic and blend in a food processor along with the salt. With the blade still running, slowly add 125mls of vegetable oil, then a tablespoon of lemon juice. Repeat until you have added all the oil and lemon juice. The result should be smooth and creamy.
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52 GARLIC CLOVE SOUP
A flu fighter - makes about 5 cups 26 garlic cloves (unpeeled) 26 garlic cloves (peeled) 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp butter 2¼ cups sliced onions 1 tsp fresh thyme ½ cup grated ginger ½ tsp cayenne pepper 3½ cups stock (vege or chicken) ½ cup coconut milk 1 tsp fresh parsley 1 lemon, cut into wedges
Regular meditation can help to still the mind
Place your hand on your diaphragm, and observe it rise and fall as you breathe. Direct your inhalations downwards so you can feel your chest and lungs opening and expanding. Sit in a quiet place, and observe whatever is happening around you: busy ants at your feet, clouds drifting above.
those who’d like to dip their toes in. Or, take a stroll through Google Arts and Culture, which features free interactive content from more than 2000 museums and art galleries!
1. Roast unpeeled garlic drizzled with the olive oil at 180°C degrees until soft (approx 30 minutes). Peel and put aside. 2. Melt butter in a heavy, large saucepan. Add onions, thyme, ginger and cayenne pepper. Cook until onions are translucent. 3. Add roasted and raw garlic and cook for 3 minutes. 4. Add stock, cover and simmer for 20 minutes until raw garlic is tender. 5. Blend until smooth. 6. Return to the saucepan, add coconut milk and bring to simmer. Season. 7. Pour soup into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Serves 4.
Garlic contains emulsifiers that coat droplets of fat, allowing them to become suspended in water, but the oil must be added very slowly for it to work. If the emulsion breaks, add egg white from one egg to the mixture and blend again. Toum is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meat, roasted vegetables or falafel. Or you may enjoy just eating it on toast, watching Netflix, alone.
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Helping hands Te Hiringa Hauora, the Health Promotion Agency, has been working with many not for profit and community wellbeing networks to help New Zealanders get through the pandemic.
Its support for this issue of Family Care, and our wecare.kiwi online portal, has allowed Carers NZ to help thousands of caring New Zealanders in recent months. The pandemic has had an impact on us all, causing many people to feel anxious and distressed. “During lockdown, issues such as loneliness, loss of freedom, minimal contact with family members and, for carers, a lack of respite from the pressures of full-time caring, added to people’s anxiety," says Virginia MacEwan from Te Hiringa Hauora. “Even now that life has returned to ‘almost normal’ we live in uncertain times and feeling a certain degree of stress and anxiety is not unusual." Te Hiringa Hauora, the Health Promotion Agency, is a Crown agent that leads national health promotion activities. It has a strong focus on wellbeing policy areas such as alcohol harm minimisation, mental health and wellbeing, tobacco control, minimising gambling harm, and child and family health (including skin cancer prevention, nutrition and physical activity, and immunisation). Earlier this year the Ministry of Health asked Te Hiringa Hauora to be part of its response to the COVID-19 crisis. This work has focused on mental wellbeing for Māori, Pacific people, older people (those over 70 and Māori and Pacific peoples over 50), people with long-term health conditions including those who are immunocompromised, and hapū wāhine and new māmā. Carers NZ has been part of this work with other organisations facilitated by Te Hiringa Hauora through the COVID-19 pandemic. Together we have developed, distributed, and promoted messages and resources to help people cope with the impacts of the pandemic.
Feeling anxious?
If you are struggling to cope and feel anxious or down: Let someone you trust know. Don’t keep these feelings to yourself. There are people who can and want to help. If you want to talk to a professional, a good start might be your GP, or you can call the Depression Helpline about how you are feeling or to ask a question – 0800 111 757 or text 4202. It’s OK to share your concerns with others you trust, and in doing so you may end up providing support to them too!
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GETTING THROUGH TOGETHER
Wellbeing initiatives include work with the Mental Health Foundation and AllRight?, a team from Canterbury District Health Board. The All Right? campaign began after the 2011 Canterbury earthquakes. Its messages were adapted after the March 2019 shootings in Christchurch, and again in response to COVID-19. All Right? worked with the Mental Health Foundation to develop Getting Through Together in partnership with Te Hiringa Hauora. "Both organisations have a wealth of knowledge working with Kiwis on their mental health and wellbeing. It is a really special partnership," Virginia says. Getting Through Together offers practical tips about looking after yourself and your whānau. The campaign reminds people that, during tough times, experiencing a range of emotions is normal - that however you might be feeling, you’re not alone. Animated digital advertisements, developed in response to COVID-19 with messages of hope and aroha, can be viewed at www.hpa.org.nz (click on ‘COVID-19 update’). A new project on the financial impacts of COVID-19 and a Pasifika-specific campaign were launched by Te Hiringa Hauora in August. “Another key part of what we’re doing around COVID-19 is working with regional and community groups to develop resources and tools to support their campaigns and initiatives. This is a great way to support the five priority groups in the communities where they live, work and play," says Virginia. "Together we are stronger and can reach further.” Carers NZ thanks Te Hiringa Hauora and our colleagues - we have worked together to share wellbeing resources far and wide. If you or your organisation would like additional copies of this issue of Family Care, please email centre@carers.net.nz or phone 0800 777 797. We have printed extra copies to make them freely available to networks across the country.
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Find your CENTRE For weeks, yoga and other fitness and wellbeing classes weren't possible. Even now, do you really need to 'go out' to attend them? Not with Nikki Ralston. Yoga teacher and manual therapist Nikki Ralston has been working with the human body for over 20 years. Combining her love of movement and yoga, she has developed her own method that focuses on making the practices of yoga, meditation and breath work safe, sustainable and accessible to all. Her clients range from high performance athletes and stressed workers to those recovering from injury and trauma. “We’ve all heard about the health benefits of yoga, how it can improve balance, flexibility and muscle tone,” she says. “What a lot of people don’t know is that yoga can also play a great role in increasing self-esteem and confidence.” She is living testament to her belief that true confidence comes from an authentic and deep connection to yourself. Yoga is a systematised science that can provide the pathway towards this self-realisation. “Without self-confidence, we can tend to let fear take control of us and we can
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end up in some pretty awful situations." "My self-esteem was at an all-time low in 2004, and this led me to be in, and stay in, an abusive relationship for two years." "I became physically ill, and I also felt the weakest I have ever felt in my life. Getting out of the house and going to yoga was the only time I had a glimpse of my true self, as my view of myself at that time had become clouded and overshadowed by fear and insecurity." "Practising yoga helped to remind me that I was strong. It helped me to become clearer in my mind and slowly rebuild my broken spirit." This is partly why Nikki loves sharing her knowledge and experience to help others build their own confidence and selfesteem. As she’s acutely aware that many people are unable to attend classes in person, a great selection of her Ralston Method Yoga tutorials are free to watch and follow along on her website.
“Self-confidence helps us to not view fear as an obstacle, it helps us to accept the things we cannot change and gives us the courage to create the changes that we can," Nikki says. "The truth of the matter is that we cannot do everything, but this doesn’t mean that we should feel bad about having limitations."
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"Anyone who has got on the mat realises that yoga is extremely humbling and can help you understand more about your mind as well as your body." "With yoga, you can become more aware of your limitations, as well as your potential." Through this awareness, we can better understand the limiting thoughts and actions that get in our way, Nikki says. "Meditation can help you grasp the concept that we are not our thoughts, feelings or emotions, that we are in fact the observer of these temporary states and they, like all things, pass. When we stop trying to do everything and be everything to everyone else, we give ourselves the space to focus on ourselves and what is really important.”
Watch Nikki’s videos vimeo.com/user82734076
Stand In Your Strength: Nikki’s 10 minute practice to help you build self-confidence and remember just how strong you are! vimeo.com/259940007
NIKKI IS LIVING TESTAMENT TO HER BELIEF THAT CONFIDENCE COMES FROM AN AUTHENTIC, DEEP CONNECTION TO YOURSELF. YOGA IS A SYSTEMATISED SCIENCE THAT CAN PROVIDE THE PATHWAY TO ACHIEVE THIS CONNECTION.
EASY DOES IT -------------------
Three simple things you can do to improve things for yourself or someone else.
1. Give yoga a try by following along with one of Nikki's online tutorials. 2. Search Google for some easy yoga stretches. 3. Breathe deeply!
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make it EASY As we navigate our way through easing of Covid-19 restrictions, change will no doubt remain a constant. Access to food and supplies is almost back to normal, but for some, doing the shopping remains a struggle. Housing, transport, support, food, banking, companionship - we’re all sorting out life’s necessities in this new landscape. Our feedback is that people have mostly been able to sort these things out with the help of family, community, and government.
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Accessing food and supplies changed during Covid-19. From supermarket shopping to meal prep and deliveries, there are more options than ever! By Angelique Kasmara
As in other countries, the longer-term realities of COVID-19 include ensuring those who need it continue to have access to food and meals. The end of lockdowns doesn't mean sourcing food and supplies is easier for those who have been financially impacted, or people who need help to get these things due to vulnerabilities. We need to keep helping each other so we all get through COVID-19. Around New Zealand, Civil Defence has led regional
responses to food for people unable to easily access or afford supplies. And community networks have sprung into action to ensure New Zealanders are catered for despite the pandemic's lingering realities. Creative solutions to food and meals are an interesting outcome of recent months. Restaurants and cafes are getting busier again, and meal deliveries are as popular as ever, while new services have joined those we are already familiar with, from fixed price food boxes to cookery kits to meet every foodie desire. Vegetables, meat, nonperishables, seafood, and household supplies are available in new ways. This will no doubt keep evolving in the months ahead.
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Now that we've experienced what it's like to go into a lockdown and come out the other side, we know that things can return to 'normal', including being able to share a meal with friends and family outside of our immediate bubbles. If we ever have to go through it all again, items in abundant supply, and those where there’s been a noticeable shortage, might still be hard to predict. The first time, toilet paper and disinfectant products were scarce, then it was flour, yeast, cake mixes and, in some places, eggs. But the panic buying that New Zealand initially experienced feels like a dim memory. Online supermarket delivery slots are fairly easy to get now, especially if you use Countdown’s Priority Assistance Service or the Student Volunteer Army’s buy and deliver service with New World. Buying sanitisers, cleaning items, gloves, and masks has been another challenge, but these are also easy to access now on retail shelves or online (having previously sold out as soon as they appeared). Stores are also restocked with things most of us previously didn't buy but might keep on hand going forward, like gloves. Typical household protective needs can be met from supermarket and chemist stocks, while food delivery options have allowed many to provide nutritious meals for themselves and / or their families. Meal kits and food deliveries can still happen on a 'contactless' basis and this is likely to continue for some time. We've put together information about food and meal choices to help you keep navigating what's available in this time of COVID-19. Bon appétit!
Hassle free meals We’ve compiled some options for times when you need a break from creating a meal from scratch. Or maybe you’re looking to gift a meal kit to a family member or friend who needs convenience or some help. Our list isn’t exhaustive by any means, and if we’ve left out your favourite service do let us know! We love your suggestions and will share them with other readers. Angel Delivery www.angeldelivery.co.nz Paediatric nurse Rebecca Cass began her business preparing and delivering care packages for new mums in Wellington. Now Angel Delivery has grown to provide gourmet hampers and care packages across New Zealand for everyone with new baby arrivals, illness, sympathy, birthdays … or just because. An Essential Family Meal Care Package starts from $150, while a Deluxe Care Package for One starts at $155. Phone 0800 566 153 or email info@angeldelivery.com Bargain Box www.bargainbox.co.nz Choose a Bargain Box with 3-5 meals per week for 2-6 people. Recipes and ingredients for each meal are included which you cook yourself. A mini Bargain Box starts at $87.99, which averages out to about $14.66 a meal. Phone 0800 227 424. Eat A Rainbow www.eatarainbow.co.nz Naturally colourful foods are “packed with nutritiously balanced goodness”. A Frozen Pot Luck order (7 small meals) costs $42, while Mac Cheese is priced at $6.90 - $7.90. Delivery is nationwide, excluding rural areas. Email info@eatarainbow.co.nz or phone 022 043 1216. Eat My Lunch www.eatmylunch.nz Every lunch you buy means a kid who would otherwise go without is also given a lunch. Classic Lunch costs $13.95. Every day is different, so you can expect something different every time. You are guaranteed a roll, wrap, croissant or sandwich, snacks, sweet treats, and a piece of seasonal fruit. Auckland and Wellington only. Visit the website for more information. EAT www.eat.co.nz Home delivered meals, with no
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minimum order. There is a pickup option if you live nearby – Eat Unlimited is Wellington based, but deliveries are made across the country (excluding rural). Offering “wholesome fresh food that tastes exactly like it was cooked in your own kitchen”, a regular size Steak with Fresh Herb Butter comes at $11.80, while the 5+5 Deal costs $75. Phone 04 560 1960 or email orders@eat.co.nz Foodbox www.foodbox.co.nz This is a grocery delivery service rather than meal kits, featuring fresh seasonal food from the markets, unloading direct from fisherfolk and farms, packing and delivering all in the same day. Customise your box to leave out things you don’t like; add in things you want. Deals start at $95 for a Me Myself & I box - everything you need to feed one person for a week. They deliver to main centres nationwide and other areas – check your area by calling 0508 586 272 or email orders@foodbox. co.nz Farro www.farro.co.nz Farro's Produce Kit, a mixed box of fresh vegetables and seasonal fruit, costs $70 or $80 for a vegan/gluten-free hamper. Farro also offers ready to go meals - Meatballs Napoli costs $23.99. Ready to go meals are delivered in Auckland only, while foodkits are delivered nationwide including rural areas. Check the website for more details, or to find details for the store nearest to you. Fit Food www.fitfood.nz This food and supplements company offers a range of gourmet meals and sports supplements. Fresh (not frozen) meals are delivered to homes and workplaces throughout New Zealand. With an emphasis on being health-led, Fit Food offers a Weight Management 6 Pack ($83.40). Or try other options, from a Low Carb 6 Pack ($85.40) to the Vegan 6 Pack ($89.40). Phone 03 310 7179 or email info@fitfood.nz
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Get Fed www.getfed.co.nz Partnering with local farmers and food producers who specialise in seasonal, fresh and natural produce, Get Fed is high welfare and sustainably sourced. You can subscribe to a weekly box of individual meals, a weekly Family Box, or just order from their As You Go service if you’re not into subscribing. They also have a ‘regular’ or ‘ravenous’ option, so a Brazilian spiced chicken with herbed pilaf will cost either $17.50 or $19. Currently delivering to five North Island centres – contact them on 0800 438 330 or hello@getfed.co.nz HelloFresh www.hellofresh.co.nz Fresh seasonal produce delivered to your door. Choose from Veggie, Classic, and Family plans, with options for the number of recipes and servings per meal. HelloFresh allows more customisation than other food boxes, excellent for any picky eaters in your family. The Family Plan
is designed for families with young kids. HelloFresh’s plans work out at about $13.99 per person (and they’re currently offering discounts). Jess’s Underground Kitchen www.juk.co.nz Jess’s Underground Kitchen (JUK) delivers to centres around the North Island. JUK Care Packages, starting at 4 Meals ($72), are delivered direct to the door, with the nice touch of a handwritten note. Contact JUK at 09 378 7711 / 09 522 7034 or email hernebay@juk.co.nz or remuera@juk. co.nz or parnell@juk.co.nz My Food Bag www.myfoodbag.co.nz Does My Food Bag need an introduction? They’ve become so successful that they've branched out – Bargain Box, Fresh Start, and Made are also under its umbrella (we’ve featured its Bargain Box separately). Call 0800 469 366 or order through the website. Plate Up www.plateup.co.nz Paleo meal delivery service. Try the Dine In pack ($99), described as the Plate Up survival pack, will stock your fridge or freezer with 7 of its bestselling meals. Delivery is nationwide – for rural properties, check the rural deliveries question at the website. Email info@plateup.co.nz
The Food Company www.thefoodcompany.co.nz Offering a combo of "expert nutrition with vibrant flavour to deliver Kiwi home style cuisine", The Food Company also has a good range of keto dishes. Its Weekly Meal Box (7 meals) is currently $104.65. A breakdown of each meal into calories, fat, carbs, and protein per serving is included. Delivery to all major town centres (no rural delivery at this stage). Email info@thefoodcompany. co.nz or phone 0800 875 433. The Kai Box www.thekaibox.co.nz Delivering vegan meals to your door, The Kai Box delivers nationwide, but do check its website for delivery days and times, and guidelines around rural delivery. They offer a Breakfast Box, Couples Box, Family Box and Kickstart Low Carb. The Family Box is $115 for a family of four. sales@thekaibox.co.nz Tomorrow’s Meals www.frozenfresh.co.nz/ tomorrows-meals-full-range/ Tomorrow’s Meals offers a range of 8 full meals, 6 snack meals, and 2 desserts. Serving up Kiwi classics such as Slow Cooked Beef Casserole and Lamb Hotpot, a breakdown of all ingredients and nutritional information is available at the website. This range is available at selected Bin Inn, Countdown, Foursquare, New World and Pak N Save stores nationwide. Get in touch via Frozen Fresh, 07 571 2989, or at the website. WOOP www.woop.co.nz WOOP (World On A Plate)'s Foodie Box includes recipes inspired from around the world, with prices starting at $87 (3 meals) for one adult. Ingredients come fresh and pre-prepared, and recipe cards are included to guide you with cooking the meals. Other options include the Balance Box, Classic Box, and Gluten Free Box. WOOP delivers to main centres around New Zealand – check its website to see if they can deliver to you. Email info@woop.co.nz or phone 09 283 0400.
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Choices galore
Expanding options to source food and supplies is a positive outcome of COVID-19.
SUPERMARKETS
We predict that grocery deliveries and online ordering will remain popular as an outcome of COVID-19. Stocks of most items have normalised - you may want to consider more frequent deliveries which is easier on fixed budgets now that more delivery slots are available. Countdown Countdown made a commitment to prioritise its online services for those that can’t physically get to the supermarket. This includes people over 70 years of age, people undergoing treatment for cancer and/or with blood conditions that make them more vulnerable to COVID-19, and people with chronic illnesses including respiratory conditions, heart conditions, high blood pressure, kidney problems and diabetes where these illnesses or conditions prevent you from going to the supermarket. People who are in mandatory self-isolation after returning from travel or coming into contact with someone confirmed to have COVID-19 are also eligible, along with people with disabilities where these prevent you from shopping in person. Sign up for Countdown's Priority Assistance Service by completing a short online form at countdown.co.nz, or call the Customer Care Team 0800 477 655 or email priority@countdown.co.nz New World and SVA The Student Volunteer Army has expanded to include New World deliveries in many areas of the country. Visit sva.org.nz to learn about its grocery service to make ordering and delivery of supplies easy for
older people and those who can’t easily shop in-store. 0800 005 902. Deliver Eats delivereats.nz This handy database lists 1,096 independent businesses offering online ordering and deliveries. Updated daily for everything you can think of! Uber Eats www.ubereats.com The rise of Uber Eats has been so rapid that it’s astonishing to think they only launched in 2017 in Auckland. Now also available in Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin, Tauranga, Palmerston North and Hamilton. To use Uber Eats, download the app. Scroll through the feed for restaurants delivering in your area. When you find something you like, check all details are correct, then place an order. You can follow your order in the app from preparation to delivery. The Salvation Army with Countdown Countdown and The Salvation Army have partnered in several initiatives to help vulnerable New Zealanders access good quality food at fair prices. They also provide food parcels and other wraparound support services to those in need during winter and Christmas, and have launched New Zealand’s first online food donation program - The Foodbank Project, a virtual grocery store where anyone can donate food online. See www.foodbanks.org.nz
Others
Several farmers markets have worked
to keep stallholders in business through online deliveries. Head online to www.farmersmarkets.org.nz to find one near you, and to check delivery options. Maker2u is a purely online market launched to support artisan food and beverage producers. Shoppers buy directly from the maker and goods are sent by courier. www.maker2u.com Wholesaler Bidfood has launched a home delivery service, BidfoodHome, which will deliver food, drinks and kitchen supplies to your door, as long as you spend a minimum of $200. The service launched in Auckland but is quickly rolling out nationwide. www.bidfood.co.nz Commonsense Organics Commonsense Organics offers a wide variety of grocery, personal care, homeware and health items in its online shop. Its Fruit & Vege Box of seasonal, organic produce comes in three options - $30, $40, $50. Nationwide delivery. To get in touch, email deliveries@commonsenseorganics. co.nz or call 04 384 3314 or visit commonsenseorganics.co.nz
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feature Food Together Food Together delivers fresh fruit and veges with two options available: The Kai Box $25 or the Whānau Box $40. Delivers to most cities and towns, and beyond. Check for your area by emailing info@ foodtogether.co.nz or visit www.foodtogether.co.nz Fruit Guys These guys deliver fresh fruit and veges to your door. Check out the Fruit Box options online. Nationwide delivery. Phone 09 442 2915 or email info@fruitguys.co.nz or visit www.fruitguys.co.nz Naturally Organic Its wide range of grocery, health and personal care items includes food boxes a large Family Organic Mixed Fruit & Vege Box costs $80, and a Seasonal Organic Fruit Box is $30. They deliver to most North and South Island towns and cities. Call 09 914 2026 or fill in their enquiry form at www.naturallyorganic.co.nz Placemat www.placemat.co.nz Placemat is a meal planning service, rather than delivering meals per se. Set up your preferences at the website, including allergies in your family, nutritional requirements and preferred diets. Then build your meal plan – choose from hundreds of seasonal recipes tailored to your family’s requirements. Then cook! Whether it’s about wanting to learn something new every night, or sticking
to family favourites, this service takes the guesswork out of meal planning. A trial option is available. For info call 021 296 8948 or email hello@placemat.co Service Foods, a supplier for restaurants around the country, has launched Service Foods Home which offers a wide range of goods for door to door delivery. Visit www.servicefoodshome.co.nz, email home@servicefoods.co.nz or call 09 954 1349 Solander Gourmet Seafood Seafood delivered to your door. Try the DIY Takeaways Pack for $59.90, or a Family Frozen Seafood Mix Box for $99.90. Or you can get fish delivered - they have a wide variety of species available (all subject to catch and availability). Nationwide delivery. Contact them at seafood@ solander.com, call 0800 555 584, or visit www.gourmetseafood.co.nz
The Brand Outlet This online shop includes Harvest and Butchery boxes. A Medium Harvest Box - Fresh Mixed is $49.95 or a Medium Butchery Box is $69.95. Currently, Butchery boxes are only delivered to towns and cities in the North Island. No rural delivery is available. Contact The Brand Outlet at webstore@thebrandoutlet.co.nz or visit thebrandoutlet.co.nz The Market The Market has a wide selection of pantry and chilled goods in its online store. Try the Food Snob Large Cheese and Antipasto Selection ($140). Delivers nationwide (excluding rural). They also have foodboxes which can be delivered to most main centres - check about delivery to your area. Email the Customer Service Team at cs@themarket.nz or chat with them online: www.themarket.com
1-2-3-4 -------------------------
Simple things you can do for yourself or someone else. 1. Make this time easier by trying meal kits and delivery options 2. Ask for help if food and supplies are a problem 3. Rediscover favourite old recipes! 4. Gift food or money to help those in need
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Meal mates
Some of the best ideas are the simplest, especially at times like this. Bellyful cooks and delivers a few nights’ worth of meals to families with newborns, as well as families with young children who are struggling with illness where there is little or no family or social support. CEO Charlotte Delahunty says “it’s a very simple, direct way of helping families. And the feedback we get is that it’s never just about the meals, but the feeling of being supported by others. That there is someone out there who cares about and understands what you’re going through.” The organisation was founded by Pukekohe mum Jacqui Ritchie in 2009. “I saw Jacqui (Ritchie) on the Good Sorts segment of TV One News and found her story so compelling,” says Jacqui Jago, who herself went on to form Bellyful Karori. Eight years later she still feels passionate about the work they do.
"IT'S NEVER JUST ABOUT THE MEALS, BUT THE FEELING OF BEING SUPPORTED BY OTHERS. THAT THERE IS SOMEONE OUT THERE WHO CARES ABOUT AND UNDERSTANDS WHAT YOU'RE GOING THROUGH."
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Bellyful delivers homemade meals at tough times.
“Both my girls had reflux as babies and I had no family support in Wellington. Whilst I didn’t have any particular struggles beyond exhaustion, preparing meals was often more difficult than I would ever have thought. So when Jacqui talked about a charity that was helping with practical support at mealtimes it was something I could really relate to.” Volunteers around New Zealand lead and support their branch, cooking nourishing meals of macaroni cheese, tomato and lentil soup, beef lasagna, and pasta sauce in a monthly ‘Cookathon’. About a third of the families come through referrals from health professionals such as midwives, Plunket nurses or social workers. Others are nominated by friends or family, and some people self refer. Bellyful stresses that it’s more than okay to ask for and accept help – it can be a brave step, in fact. "I have to work hard to convince some Mums that it is okay to accept help or, better yet, ask for it.” At times Bellyful also works closely with families under extra stress, often due to postnatal depression or serious illness in either a child or a parent. “To have two young children that are both severely disabled is going to take me a long time to come to terms with, so having some cooked meals has been such a blessing when I haven’t been able to do anything other than look after my girls,” says the mother of one family who have been supported by Bellyful Karori. With a total of 23 Bellyful branches around New Zealand, and more opening regularly, it’s clear that this service answers a vital need. Its strength also lies within its philosophy, built on principles such as the importance of community and that well-supported families are less likely to struggle during times of stress. Learn more at www.bellyful.org.nz FamilyCARE 35
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The case FOR STRAWS The drive to ban single use plastic straws gained much of its momentum from one powerful video. When footage of a sea turtle with a straw stuck up one of its nostrils went viral, people were horrified, and for good reason. The growing movement led to companies like Starbucks relinquishing straws, and in New Zealand many cafés and restaurants have swapped their plastic straws for paper ones. It’s easy to see why change has come about more swiftly than other environmental measures. 36 FamilyCARE
People can pat themselves on the back for doing their bit, without experiencing any real sacrifice. However, it’s a different story for those in the disabled community as well as many elderly people. Weakness, paralysis, swallowing problems or involuntary movements mean that using metal, bamboo, glass, acrylic, paper or pasta straws can add a higher risk of injury or choking. These straws are difficult to position and keep in place. “Targeting plastic straws has the unintended consequence of causing
A move away from plastic has led to changes in many products and habits, including drinking straws. But not all straws are created equal, says Angelique Kasmara. harm to disabled people that use them,” says Disabled Persons Assembly chief executive Prudence Walker. The harm is twofold, she says. "Firstly it reduces disabled people’s access to a necessary aid that enables them to hydrate independently and with dignity." "Secondly, by targeting plastic straws over other single use plastic, and the rhetoric often heard around straws of 'well, no one really needs them anyway', it indicates to the disabled community that their voice is again being unheard, or is being wilfully ignored." www.wecare.kiwi
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There are many ways we can make our environment more sustainable without prioritising those that can negatively affect disabled people, says Prudence. The bendy single use plastic straw remains the yardstick as a great example of universal design. It’s extraordinarily useful for the very young, the very old, and those who have difficulties with swallowing. Initial sales of the 'Flex-Straw', invented by Joseph B Friedman in the 1930s, was mostly to hospitals. Nurses realised that bendy straws could help bedridden patients and were much safer than the glass tubes which were in common use at the time.
Making the best choice
Unfortunately there is not yet a viable alternative to plastic straws that is accessible to all disabled people, says Prudence. “What is more, reusable straws need to be frequently and thoroughly washed and sterilised, a process which in itself isn’t accessible to many disabled people.” The DPA states that some alternative straws do work for some disabled people – but these are individual solutions that need to be explored by individuals rather than a one size fits all approach. Finding an alternative is largely a case of trial and error after considering the various qualities of each alternative.
Types of straws Silicon These are very flexible, and come in different thicknesses for different liquids. Although they’re hard to recycle, and can be difficult to sanitise, they are a far more sustainable option than plastic. Metal Possibly the most environmentally sustainable product, but arguably the most unsatisfying to actually use. They are solid and durable, but lack flexibility and have been known to cause serious injury and even death. Paper The most environmentally friendly single use option. These are nonflexible, and likely to get soggy quickly. Pasta To be avoided if you have a gluten or wheat allergy. It’s a sturdy product, however, and you can boil
it and eat it afterwards - in theory at least! Bamboo Straws Very eco-friendly and biodegradable. However splinters may appear after 10 – 20 uses, and they are difficult to clean. Reusable Plastic Straws These are found coupled with a durable cup and lid, which is handy for reducing spillage. Biodegradable Plastic Straws Options include PLA (polylactic acid) and chitosan straws. Apparently these are just like using a plastic straw, which is a huge bonus. However, PLA only degrades quickly in a hot composter, so you don’t want them ending up in the ocean. Chitosan is made from crushed shells. Early reports suggest that these are safe for those with a seafood allergy, but apply caution in any case.
Hospitality recommendations
“An inclusive restaurant or café supplies plastic straws,” says Prudence. “A good option for a restaurant that values both environmental sustainability and social justice is to provide a stock of both plastic straws and an alternative such as paper, in a place easily accessed by customers." "This gives customers choice, and doesn’t stigmatise those who need to use a plastic straw.”
THE BENDY SINGLE USE PLASTIC STRAW IS A GREAT EXAMPLE OF UNIVERSAL DESIGN - IT'S USEFUL FOR THE VERY YOUNG, THE VERY OLD, AND THOSE WHO HAVE SWALLOWING DIFFICULTIES. www.wecare.kiwi
How to clean reusable straws What You’ll Need Hot water Dish soap A pipe cleaner or straw brush Baking soda (optional)
Rinse If you can, do this as soon as you’re done using your straw, so stuff doesn’t harden in there. Cap the bottom end with your finger and place the top end under hot running water from the faucet. Then release and let the water run through. Do this a few times. If you see something chunky in there (like bits from a smoothie), plug the bottom hole, fill the straw with water and blow through the opening at the top.
Scrub Add dish soap to your straw brush, then push it into your straw and scrub vigorously. Repeat from both ends of the straw. Don’t forget to clean the openings and the outside of the straw. Add baking soda If you still suspect or see debris, add the scrubbing power of baking soda. Sprinkle some onto your bottle brush, then scrub from the top and bottom. Rinse again When you’re done cleaning, run the straw under hot water to flush out any remaining soap or baking soda. You’re done!
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recipes
Lovely LUNCHES
Watch The Veggie Tree online w
Tasty, healthy lunch ideas from three fantastic books – enter our draw to win your own copies!
THE VEGGIE TREE SPRING & SUMMER COOKBOOK This cookbook by Northland chef Anna Valentine is great for all seasons. Catering for plant-based diets, most of the recipes provide vegan alternatives, as well as gluten-free or dairy-free options. Anna runs the popular Veggie Tree Cook School at her home in Kaeo, Far North. Buy her book at theveggietree.com ($29.99).
Zucchini Cheesecake
"The versatile zucchini is a prolific grower in Northland, and indeed across the country. It’s nice to have a few recipes under your belt for zucchini. In my case my early memories of this vegetable are not great. So I have taken on a challenge to make super tasty zucchini dishes that are often disguised, as my kids tend to pick them out. This cheesecake is a nice alternative to a quiche and would be a great dish to share." Method and Ingredients Line a 25cm spring form tin with baking paper. For the base, measure the following into a food processor: ½ cup raw walnuts or pumpkin seeds ¾ cup sunflower seeds Whizz until finely chopped then add: 1 cup wholemeal, buckwheat or oat flour 100g butter, cubed and chilled Pulse together until it becomes one mass. Push the dough evenly into the lined tin and refrigerate while you get the filling prepared. Preheat oven to 150°C. Next, prepare: 4 zucchini, grated and squeezed to remove excess water Slice and marinate an extra 2 zucchini in 1 tbsp fresh thyme, roughly chopped, and 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Slice on the diagonal into 1cm thickness, then chargrill on the barbecue or a smoking hot griddle. Push zucchini slices down onto the grill plate for one minute or so and when they are a good, dark, golden colour with char lines, flip them over and press down again with the back of a spatula.
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For the cheesecake filling, measure into a large bowl or mixing bowl with a whisk attachment: 250g ricotta 250g cream cheese Beat until smooth, then add 6 eggs. Continue beating until light and fluffy. Mix together in a separate small bowl: 4 tsp cornflour 1 tbsp mustard powder ½ cup cream 1 tsp salt ¼ tsp cracked black pepper Reduce the beater speed, then pour the mixture from the small bowl into the main bowl and beat for another 30 seconds. Then fold into the mix the reserved grated zucchini plus 2 tbsp chopped chives, onion flower stems, or coriander. Add the filling to the chilled base, then bake for an hour or so. The filling should be set but retain a little wobble. The cheesecake may develop cracks, but don’t worry. Cool in the tin, then remove the outside ring and chill further before sliding the cheesecake out of the base. Top with chargrilled zucchini and fresh thyme flowers. Serves 12.
Your own copy!
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THE 5-MINUTE SALAD LUNCHBOX
Happy, Healthy & Speedy Salads To Make In Minutes By Alexander Hart Sometimes preparing your food for the day ahead can feel impossible. You opt for the easy way out: eating what’s quick and within arm’s reach. Often this is less healthy. The 5-Minute Salad Lunchbox makes prepping an exciting, nutritious lunch a total breeze. Expect myriad flavours from across the globe. $20.30 from thenile.co.nz
Corn & Bean Salad with Lime Dressing
If you have a little more time to make this salad, chargrill a fresh ear of corn instead of using tinned. Slice off the kernels and add to the remaining salad ingredients. 75g drained tinned sweet corn kernels 100g drained tinned cannellini (lima) beans Handful of grape or baby plum tomatoes 2 spring onions, sliced 1 tbsp grated parmesan Handful each of mixed salad greens and torn basil leaves Toss the salad ingredients together, then tip into your bowl or lunchbox. Combine the dressing ingredients in a small jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Pour the dressing over the salad before eating and toss well.
HEALTHY LUNCHBOX LOVE
Simple Nourishing Recipes for Busy Families ... with bonus healthy dinner and dessert recipes By Wick Nixon
Lime dressing Juice of ½ lime 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 of 4 copies! Alexander Hart is a cook and food writer based in the Blue Mountains west of Sydney.
OUR PICK
We love this small book packed with ideas for healthy lunches, dinners, and desserts. Wick's philosophy towards food is to keep it simple and easy, using fresh ingredients wherever possible. Her recipes are made from nourishing grains and flours and include minimal processed food or refined sugar. $29.95, or e-book $19.99, at www.wickedwellbeing.com
Wick Nixon’s Nut Free Protein Balls
4 medjool dates, pips removed (or 8 dried dates) and soaked in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain ½ cup pumpkin seeds 1 cup desiccated coconut 1 tsp vanilla essence 1 tbsp pure maple syrup 2 tbsp cacao powder ¼ cup chocolate protein powder ¹/³ cup coconut oil, melted
Combine ingredients in a food processor and pulse until smooth. Form into balls using damp hands. Refrigerate for approximately 1 hour until firm. Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. Makes 16-20 balls. Prep time: 10 minutes Chill time: 1 hour Suitable to freeze.
Watch Wick Nixon w
4 copies to be won!
ENTRY FORM FOR ALL READER GIFTS, P8. www.wecare.kiwi
FamilyCARE 39
IS YOUR WORKPLACE CARER FRIENDLY?
CARERS NZ CAN HELP!
IF YOU'RE A CARER, ASK YOUR EMPLOYER TO BE CAREWISE
www.carewise.net.nz EASY STEPS TO CREATE A CARER FRIENDLY WORKPLACE
1
Employers commit to being CareWise
5
Workplaces receive a CareWise welcome pack and recognition certificate
2
They test how carer friendly they currently are using our Self-Review
6
Carers NZ provides free resources for carers, updates, and fun things for CareWise workplaces
3
They learn how to be more carer friendly in five priority areas
7
NZ and global research and news about are regularly shared with CareWise employers
4
Our Action Plan template helps employers tailor steps to create a carer friendly workplace
8
Carers NZ supports working carers and their employers at an early stage, to help carers keep working and earning!
Carer friendly workplaces Almost 90% of New Zealand’s family carers are working age, 15 to 65
1 in 8
NZ employees family carers
Carers can struggle to juggle the support they give to family members who are frail, unwell, or have a chronic condition or disability with earning an income. CareWise is a programme to help employers support caring staff. There is no cost to be CareWise. Creating a country of carer friendly workplaces is important for carers, their families, and New Zealand. About 10% of New Zealand’s carers give up work to care - together we can help them keep working and earning.
Launched during the nationwide lockdown earlier this year, CareWise makes it easy for employers to be carer friendly. This is more important than ever as New Zealand deals with the challenges of COVID-19. New Zealand is one of the first countries in the world to have a programme like CareWise, developed in association with Business NZ, employers, industry networks and associations, and government agencies. Supported by the Ministry of Social Development, CareWise gives employers the tools to help carers stay in work. Often carers feel they need to give up their jobs early access to information, advice, and support can make all the difference. If you are an employer who would like to recognise and assist the carers in your workplace, visit carewise.net.nz
EMPLOYERS can find out about the programme at www.carewise.net.nz - it takes just a few minutes to sign up.
WORKING CARERS receive information, advice and support to help them keep working and earning. We also provide individual support via the Carers NZ helpline, free infopacks, and more.
CARERS WANTING TO RETURN TO WORK can link with participating CareWise employers who have an open door hiring policy for family carers!
Committing to be CareWise takes just a few minutes. Join the Mental Health Foundation, IHC, Suncorp, the Restaurant Association of NZ, Laura Fergusson Brain Injury Trust Canterbury, NZ Health Group and other CareWise employers - Carers NZ will support you to be carer friendly every step of the way!
CARERS, SHARE YOUR STORIES! What are the realities of working while also caring for a friend or family member? Help to raise awareness by sharing your story!
Become CareWise - be a carer friendly employer Carers NZ will keep you informed about issues important to family carers, and provide practical one to one support for caring staff. We can also help you lead carer focus groups in your workplace!
Contact us on 0800 777 797 or email centre@carers.net.nz www.carers.net.nz
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"I hope I am a good employer as well." Ant Ward started his own roofing business three years ago after it became increasingly difficult to juggle his job and the needs of his family. He and wife Gaylene have three children, aged 8, 10, and 12. Their middle child, Marshall, was diagnosed with autism as a toddler. Self-employment was a huge step into the unknown for Ant, as he had never owned a business before. But he says the gamble has paid off. “Having the option of working from home, with flexible hours, has been the best solution for all of us." Marshall is tall for his age and, at 10, very physically strong. "When I was working as an employee I started at 6am so couldn’t always be on hand to help with getting him ready for school. This was a struggle for my wife due to Marshall's size and strength." Now Ant still arrives at work early for a briefing with his staff before heading home to assist with the kids. Then Ant and Gaylene, who helps to manage their business, work from home for the rest of the day.
But daily commuting from the North Shore to its offices in Auckland's CBD was challenging, Ant says. This was a key reason for starting his own business, with the Wards now employing their own small team. Marshall doesn't speak, but can form the first syllable of some words, and points to communicate. A student at Wairau Valley Special School, he also communicates using core boards (a display of core words accompanied by a corresponding image) and apps on an iPad. Marshall becomes anxious in new situations and can get frustrated when trying to express himself, Ant says. "During the school term we keep to a regular routine, and our outings are to places he’s familiar with like MOTAT, Jump, and Inflatable World.” Summer holidays can be tough for Marshall because he’s thrown out of his usual routines. And when he’s taken to a new place, such as a recent outing with Recreate NZ to a tree climbing adventure park, it takes Marshall a long time to settle in.
The company was highly supportive of his caring role for Marshall, allowing him a lot of flexibility.
COVID-19 created new challenges for the Wards and many families. They were grateful that during this year's
61%
50%
of working carers
Home is Marshall's comfort zone, which complements the family's ability to operate their home-based business.
of general population
Ant previously worked for Kantar TNS for more than a decade.
MOST NZ FAMILY CARERS ARE OF PRIME WORKING AGE Workers aged
35-64
lockdowns, rules about their Carer Support respite funding were relaxed. This allowed them to buy an adult trike for Marshall as an alternative to hours of support - which weren't available when everyone was confined to their lockdown bubbles. “Marshall really likes his brother’s bike but his balance isn’t stable enough to ride a two-wheeler." "His school has the adult trikes, and we used our respite funding to buy one, which he happily rode around on during lockdown.” Ant is grateful to Kantar TNS for understanding his need for flexibility so he could help to care for Marshall. Now that he’s an employer himself, Ant likes to think he has an equally responsive relationship with his own team. "We are all about the same age and the staff also have young kids." "As an employer I've followed the lead of Kantar TNS which was so understanding, open, and flexible with me." "I hope I am a good employer as well."
Carers aged from 35 years to 64 years form a greater proportion of carers as a whole (61%) than people of the same age group in the general population (50%). Labour Market Characteristics of Unpaid Carers, 2006 Census
PRACTICAL STEPS TO HELP CARING STAFF KEEP WORKING AND EARNING 1.
Be open to allowing carers to work flexible hours and to work from home at times so they can better juggle work with caring responsibilities.
2. Allow carers to take and make care-related calls and messages at work, and make up this time as needed. 3. We're all used to Zoom, Skype and Microsoft Teams these days - these tools allow flexibility that makes a big difference to carers! 4. Accommodate carers to attend key medical and other appointments, to be with the person they support at crucial times. 5. Plan the ‘what ifs’ with carers: what will happen if there is an emergency, or caring responsibilities increase? 6. Distribute helpful information at work so carers can easily find it. Even noncaring staff will be interested, as they can share the information with carers in their lives. Everyone knows a carer! 7. Develop policies and practices that are carer friendly, and ensure caring staff and their colleagues know about them. CareWise has tools to help!
COVID-19: Caring workers vulnerable Balancing work-life is trickier than ever During New Zealand's nationwide lockdown, carers were asked how they were managing working from home while caring and maybe dealing with home schooling. Carers NZ and the Carers Alliance of 50 national not for profits adapted Carers UK's COVID-19 survey so we could compare notes about carers' pandemic experiences in the two countries. Almost 700 New Zealand carers completed the 15 minute survey in a two week period, yielding the report Caring In Lockdown: Forgotten families in COVID-19. An aim of the survey was to find out how working age carers were faring with COVID-19's many life disruptions. Usual services such as home support were impacted, which meant carers were doing more with less help. Those supporting a highly vulnerable person were reluctant to allow usual support visits even before the lockdown, fearful someone outside their household might be a virus risk. In these households, bubbles formed early, before the rest of the country followed suit. This prompted many carers to begin urgent discussions with their employers so they could start working from home, organise leave, and plan together how to deal with the looming realities of COVID-19. A surprise finding of the survey is that only 39% of New Zealand's 490,000+ family carers are in part- or full-time employment, or earning in self-employment. Of these, 16% reported either having lost their job or being unable to work during the national lockdown because they were deemed vulnerable or because of social distancing rules. 18% said they had given up work because of their www.wecare.kiwi
caring responsibilities. As almost 90% of New Zealand's family carers are aged 15 to 65 working age - Caring In Lockdown revealed just how hard it is for this large population of New Zealanders to work and earn. The skills and qualifications of family carers stretch across every industry, every workforce, every workplace. Every employment loss due to a carer being unable to work is a loss for them, their household, the New Zealand economy, and employers. Not every carer can participate in paid employment - they're already performing a service for their families and New Zealand by caring for our most vulnerable. Infometrics says the annual conservative value of this care, delivered quietly and invisibly in homes across the country, is $10 billion. Most carers though want to earn and contribute their skills if it's at all possible. And as New Zealand recovers from COVID-19, we need to use all of our population's talents and skills. That's why CareWise is important. If you're an employer, 1 in 8 of your existing employees will be a carer. Simple steps as a carer friendly employer will help you attract and retain talented staff who are carers - and we can help you and your staff every step of the way!
"My employer was supportive and flexible and this made a huge difference to my ability to stay in work. I am now self-employed and have staff of my own - I hope I am doing the same." Ant Ward (see his story, opposite) FamilyCARE 43
COVID-19 Information for family, whānau, and āiga carers October 2020
Carers are important and working hard during COVID-19 Carers are important and make a significant contribution to the quality of the lives of the friends, family, whānau and āiga members they care for and support. Caring is at the heart of a compassionate community and underpins who we are and what we value. Carers’ work is of huge social and economic value to New Zealand. The role of a carer becomes even more challenging during New Zealand’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. You are performing a key frontline role in keeping things together in your families, whānau and āiga and we acknowledge and value you.
There’s lots of helpful information for carers We know that you may be doing more than usual, so we are thinking of you in how we provide information, funding and how you access services. Some of the answers are evolving and we will work with Carers NZ, members of the Carers Alliance, service providers and other partners to keep you informed. This information has been brought together to make it easy for you to find the support and advice carers need at this time. While we will revise this resource as required, things do change, so please regularly check the links included here and continue to get your information from the following recommended websites: https://covid19.govt.nz/ and https://www.health.govt.nz/
New Zealand COVID-19 Alert Levels COVID-19 is likely to be with the world for some time. We must be aware and manage the risks for ourselves and the people we care for. In New Zealand, our Alert Level system is used to describe the level of risk and the restrictions that must be followed at each level. Stay informed about New Zealand’s current alert levels and what this means for you and those you support with more information here
Health and disability How to protect yourself and the people you care for Some people are more vulnerable to illnesses. This can include both the people you care for and some of you who are carers. There are simple steps that can be taken to protect you and your family, whānau and āiga. Good hygiene is very important - regularly wash and thoroughly dry your hands, and cough and sneeze into your elbow. It’s also important to regularly clean high-touch objects, items and surfaces; and stay home and seeking medical advice if unwell and get a test where necessary. Physical distance from other people who we 44 FamilyCARE
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don’t know or see regularly is also important. Use face masks or coverings on public transport and when you can’t physically distance from others you don’t know. The ‘bubble of protection’ around vulnerable people, and those they have contact with, is vital in preventing and managing the risk both of COVID-19 infection and its complications and other infectious diseases. We need to carefully manage our bubbles so that those who are more vulnerable can continue to be protected. More information about how to protect yourself and others is available here
Assessment and testing for COVID-19 People with any COVID-19 symptoms should get assessed and may need to be tested. A COVID-19 test is free of charge, whether you have COVID-19 symptoms or not. The nurse may wear personal protective equipment (such as a mask, gown, face shield and gloves) and will ask you questions about your symptoms, general health, where you live and who you live with. Testing is done by swabbing the back of your nose or throat. A swab is like a small cotton-bud with a longer stick. The sample goes to a lab to be analysed. You will be told when and how you will get your results and what to do while you are waiting for the results. More information on who should get assessed for a test for COVID-19, how testing works, and where to get tested can be found here
Contact tracing and remembering where you’ve been If someone has COVID-19, the local Public Health Unit will find out if anyone else may have been in contact with them, to see if they have also been infected. This is called contact tracing. If you are called by our contact tracers, please take or return the call. The Public Health Unit, Ministry or Healthline will provide you with advice on self-isolation and check on your health and wellbeing. Contact tracing allows for testing, isolation and treatment if required. It is a key part of our COVID-19 elimination strategy. More information on how contact tracing works can be found here An important part of contact tracing is remembering where you’ve been and who you’ve seen. You can use the NZ COVID Tracer ‘app’ that creates a digital diary, or the NZ COVID Tracer diary booklet to help. More information on keeping track of where you have been can be found here
What to do if you or the person you care for tests positive for COVID-19 If you test positive, you will have a ‘case interview’ and be asked to move into a quarantine facility as quickly as possible, unless other suitable arrangements are approved by the Medical Officer of Health. Moving to a quarantine facility is to ensure your health and welfare needs are met and to stop risk of infection to your family, whānau, āiga and community. It is recognised that this approach may present a challenge for the people you might usually care for and for their families, whānau and āiga. People’s individual circumstances will be a strong consideration in terms of any decision made by the Medical Officer of Health. More information on testing positive and moving to a quarantine facility can be found here
Face masks and coverings Wearing a face mask or face covering helps reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 when there are cases in the community. This is one of a range of important actions with hand hygiene; physical distancing; coughing and sneezing into your elbow; regular cleaning of high touch objects, items and surfaces; and staying home and seeking medical advice if unwell and getting a test where necessary. All households should have a supply of masks for each household member. Face coverings such as a bandana or a scarf can also be used if you do not have a mask. www.wecare.kiwi
FamilyCARE 45
Face masks or coverings are mandatory on public transport from Alert Level 2 and above From Alert Level 2 and above, face masks or coverings are mandatory on public transport in New Zealand. The Government has advised that children under 12 years and people with a disability or physical or mental health condition which makes it difficult to wear a face mask or covering will be exempt. It is also important to trust that others are doing the right thing. If someone is not wearing a mask, they may have a legitimate reason. When near others you do not know who are not wearing a mask, try to keep a physical distance. In Alert Level 1 it is not mandatory to wear a mask or face covering on public transport, but it is encouraged. More information on face masks and coverings, and how to wear them correctly and safely, can be found at https://www.health.govt.nz/ here and https://covid19.govt.nz/ here
People at higher risk Information for people considered at higher risk of the effects of COVID-19 and for their family, whānau and āiga is available here
Caring for older people You can find information specifically for older people and their families, whānau and āiga during the COVID19 response here
Supporting a person with dementia You may be experiencing extra stress and pressure if you are supporting someone who has dementia during the COVID-19 response. More information for family, whānau, āiga carers and supporters of people with dementia who are living at home on how to stay well under different Alert Levels is available here
Caring for disabled people Information for disabled people and their families, whānau, āiga and carers during the COVID-19 response, as well as links to accessible information in alternate formats, is available here
Hospice patients and end-of-life care Guidance and information for people who receive hospice care in home and community settings to reduce the impact and spread of COVID-19 is available here
Parents A wide range of information and links to help you care for your tamariki, rangatahi and whānau (including explaining COVID-19, Well Child Tamariki Ora, parents with babies, whānau Māori, advice, support and resources) is available here
Getting disability support during COVID-19 Information and guidelines for disabled people, and their families, whānau, āiga and carers about health and disability support services at different Alert Levels is available here More information for disabled people and their family and whānau is available here
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Wellbeing It’s important to remember that, when you are caring for someone else, you also need to take care of yourself. A free national mental health and addiction support service is available 24/7 - call or text 1737. Information on other places where you can find mental health and wellbeing support is available here
Welfare and social sector support Access to food and other essentials Accessing financial assistance to get food You may be able to get help through Work and Income. You don’t need to be an existing Work and Income client to get this help. To learn more, call 0800 559 009 or go to MyMSD at https://www.my.msd.govt.nz If you can’t leave your home to get food Support may be available to get food delivered if you can’t leave your home. •
You can make online orders and arrangements through local supermarkets; or make arrangements with family and friends to pick up food.
•
If this is not possible, you can also seek assistance through community groups, food banks, or social service or health providers. You can find contact details for these groups on the Family Services Directory website https://www.familyservices.govt.nz/directory/
If you also need financial assistance, call Work and Income on 0800 559 009.
General Financial Support You may be eligible for financial help from Work and Income for urgent costs like: • • • • • •
food accommodation (rent, board, emergency housing) repairing or replacing appliances emergency dental treatment emergency medical treatment health travel costs
You don’t need to be on a benefit to get help. You can find out more information about financial support (including eligibility) here You can also call Work and Income on 0800 559 009 and check what else you might be eligible for at https://check.msd.govt.nz/ Work and Income clients During this time regular payments will continue, and Work and Income will continue to help over the phone and online as much as possible - including having appointments over the phone where possible. You can use MyMSD at https://my.msd.govt.nz/ to update your personal details, check your payments and apply for help with things like one-off costs for food. If you still need help, you can call Work and Income on 0800 559 009. More information related to COVID-19 support and changes is available here Help for Carers Information on carer focused support available from Work and Income can be found here Please check the website regularly for the most up to date information.
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Lost your job due to COVID-19? If you lose your job (including self-employment) from 1 March to 30 October 2020 due to COVID-19, you may be eligible for the COVID-19 Income Relief Payment. More information can be found here
Employer wage subsidies If you have a paid job outside of your caring role, your employer may be eligible for a wage subsidy. There’s more information about the wage subsidies, including the Leave Support Scheme available here Talk to your employer to see if they have applied for the scheme and if you are eligible for the payment. You can also check if your employer has applied for a wage subsidy here
Keeping up to date Please keep checking the key government sites for more information on the COVID response: https://covid19.govt.nz/ https://www.health.govt.nz/
What other information do you need? If you have questions or other information you would like to see as a carer please use the links and numbers throughout this resource or get in touch with: •
centre@carers.net.nz
•
Carers NZ free on 0800 777 797
•
Continence NZ – Free Incontinence Help on 0800 650 659
•
Work and Income call free on 0800 559 009
•
Carers.strategy@msd.govt.nz
•
disability@health.govt.nz
•
Healthline COVID-19 enquiries – call free on 0800 358 5453
•
For guidance on any health issues, call Healthline free on 0800 611 116 or contact your local general practice
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Nationwide Counselling Services A range of advisory and counselling services are available in New Zealand. Many of these can be accessed by phone, text, or email. Don’t feel alone if you’re struggling – reach out for help. 1737
Free call or text 1737 to speak with a trained professional counsellor at any time 24/7. Free counselling service: depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, feeling down or overwhelmed. Highly recommended as first point of contact for callers seeking help.
AIcohol Drug Helpline
0800 787 797 or text 8681 (24/7); online chat at www.alcoholdrughelp.org.nz If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s drinking or drug taking, the Alcohol and Drug Helpline can assist with information, insight and support.
Anxiety New Zealand
Helpline 0800 269 4389. Online therapy and Covid-19 help resources available. www.anxiety.org.nz
Depression Helpline
0800 111 757 or free text 4202 to talk to a trained counsellor for support or to ask any questions. www.depression.org.nz/contact-us
EAP Services
Employee Assistance Programme – providing practical assistance to employees when personal or work issues arise that may impact on their ability to do their job or affect their wellbeing (confidential counselling services across NZ and internationally). Freephone: 0800 327 669 www.eapservices.co.nz
Gambling Helpline
24-hour Freephone: 0800 654 655 www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
Kidsline
0800 543 754 (0800 KIDSLINE). For young people up to 18 years of age 24/7. www.kidsline.org.nz
Lifeline
0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE). Lifeline trained counsellors deal with many kinds of issues including psychological and emotional distress, financial and work issues, marriage and family/whānau problems and with callers who are lonely, ill, depressed or the victims of violence or abuse. Text ‘Help’ to 4357 www.lifeline.org.nz
Rural Support Trust
Helpline 800 787 254. Chat to someone who understands, because they’ve been there. www.rural-support.org.nz
Salvation Army
0800 53 00 00. Supporting families and individuals in need with budgeting advice, food and clothing assistance, life skills programmes and other comfort and support. www.salvationarmy.org.nz
Samaritans
0800 726 666. Confidential, non-religious and non-judgemental support to anyone who may be feeling depressed, lonely, or may be contemplating suicide. www.samaritans.org.nz
SPARX
An interactive self-help online tool for young people with mild to moderate depression and anxiety: www.sparx.org.nz 0508 477 279 or free text to 3110
Suicide Crisis Helpline
0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
Supporting Families in Mental Illness
Northern Region, 0800 732 825; Central North Island, 0800 555 434; South Island, 0800 876 682. Information and support for families/whānau.
The Lowdown
Free text 5626. Support and information for young people experiencing depression or anxiety. www.thelowdown.co.nz
Victim Support
0800 842 846. Free 24/7 support. nationaloffice@victimsupport.org.nz www.victimsupport.org.nz
What’s Up
0800 942 8787 (0800 WHATSUP) For 5 - 18 year olds. Available 12.00pm – 11.00pm M-F or 3.00pm – 11.00pm weekends. Online chat is available from 5.00pm – 10.00pm daily at: www.whatsup.co.nz
Youthline
Mental Health and Addictions Service. Youthline works with young people, their families and those supporting young people. Call 0800 376 633; Free text 234; Email: talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat at www.youthline.co.nz
In emergencies always phone 111 www.wecare.kiwi
0800 777 797
centre@carers.net.nz
What’s your legacy? You will have a lasting, positive impact on people with intellectual disabilities and their families by leaving a gift to IHC in your Will. If you would like some more information on leaving a gift in your Will to IHC, then please call 0800 746 444 or email bequests@ihc.org.nz and ask for Greg. ihc.org.nz/bequests