Gemma Whiting is a social worker who puts others before herself. She’s part of our wonderful team in Ashburton/Hakatere.
What do you do?
I’m a community family worker, budgeting social worker, social worker in schools and I’m an Incredible Years facilitator.
What does that involve?
I’ve been very blessed with numerous opportunities, creating a diverse role, which has meant I’ve been able to work with people of all ages in a variety of situations. As a community family worker, I complete social work assessments and work with people to help them reach their goals. This might include helping them manage their emotions and their self-esteem, looking at their personal safety, helping them access community services or helping them be better parents. As a social worker I hope to help people as I believe every person should have the opportunity to have a sounding board and a place of refuge, which I try to provide.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I'm a wife, a daughter and a mum to our fur baby, Ernie. I’m also a social netball player, an F45er (exercise junkie!) and I help at New Life Church. I love being part of the Ashburton community and having the mountains in our backyard. I see the need for children and young people to have a blend of social work support and adventure in the outdoors, so I hope to develop skills in this area to help the children in our community to grow in resilience, persistence and character while having fun at the same time!
