Our stories

The people we work with, the trials they face, and the challenges they hope to overcome are told in the many stories we have written (with their consent).

Their stories remind us of why we are a charity, dedicated to helping vulnerable children, young people, families/whānau and older people so that they can have meaningful, connected lives.

Below are some of those stories. As you'll see, these people have faced adversity but have faced their challenges with audacity and bravery, having been helped by our team of trained social workers, psychologists and counsellors.

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"Blenheim is leading the way in teaching technology skills to older people and, in turn, helping to reduce social isolation issues."

Tōtara Tech Programme

"Graduate, Danielle Jeffery, joins Presbyterian Support as a youth coach after impressing the Enliven team on her placement."

Student placement leads to graduate position

"Tricia Dawson is an innovative and supportive team leader based in our Blenheim office."

Getting to know Tricia Dawson

"Our Enliven Harakeke Club provides day activity programmes for older people with memory loss and dementia. Read how the Club has transformed the lives of Edward and Judith."

A total transformation this Christmas thanks to Harakeke

"Our Enliven HomeShare service brings a small group of older people together in a HomeShare host’s private home for friendship, fun and laughter. Read Jaccy and Joy's story."

HomeShare - Creating lasting friendships

"Hilary Childs is one of our amazing volunteers who previously worked at Presbyterian Support as a receptionist and administrator for a tremendous 30 years. "

Long career to natural volunteer

"Mel McLauchlan works full-time managing a customer service team. Despite her busy schedule, she still finds time to volunteer as a Presbyterian Support mentor for a couple of hours each Sunday."

Creating strong relationships

"16 years ago, Kathy Collie noticed an advert in the local paper for a HomeShare Host for a new initiative at Presbyterian Support. She attended the public meeting, and thought "I can do that"."

A home away from home

"Te Whiri Ora is a coordination service and a ‘Right Service, Right Time’ initiative. Our combined mission is to create a network of supports for children, young people and their family."

A network of support

"Olivia* is a 19-year-old single mother of two, who has grown up in extreme poverty with a mother who had mental health issues. Olivia’s eldest son is almost five and her youngest child is just two. "

Rundown house to healthy home

"Graham* had been bedridden for months whilst awaiting surgery. With his mobility issues, he needed help finding suitable housing that
would be available once he left hospital."

Finding a suitable place to recover

"Lucas* is a 15-year-old who realised in intermediate school that he was different. He tried to ignore what he was feeling, but his mental health plummeted and he tried to take his own life."

Providing a safe space to talk