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Getting to know Gemma Whiting

01 July 2022
Gemma Whiting 2

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!

What’s your favourite pastime?

I love the beach, hiking trails, the sunshine and lying in the hammock. In 2021 I trained and completed my first Spring Challenge Adventure Race. This was both a mental and physical test, so I’ve signed up to do it all again this year!

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