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About us

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Who we are

Presbyterian Support has provided social services in the upper South Island region for over 115 years. While we operate as a separate entity to the Presbyterian Church, our name is a celebration of our beginnings, our heritage and the values we share.

Operating under a federation structure, the seven regional Presbyterian Support organisations (including Presbyterian Support, Upper South Island) are governed, managed and operated separately in order to best respond to local needs.

The seven organisations come together under the Presbyterian Support federation to share information, best practice ideas and, where possible, to share resources. Collectively we are one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest not-for-profit health and social service providers. For more details about services available in other regions, please visit ps.org.nz

Our vision is for an equitable, compassionate and inclusive society and our mission is to ehance the mana of children/tamāriki, young people/rangatahi, families/whānau and older people/kaumātua to be safe, resilient and connected.

Presbyterian Support Upper South Island is a registered charity and relies on the support of individuals, groups and organisations to carry out our important work in the community. If you would like to help us make a difference please consider making a donation.

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Our services

We provide a wide range of social services to support vulnerable people throughout Christchurch, Mid Canterbury, West Coast, Nelson, Marlborough and North Canterbury.

We deliver these services through our two social service brands; Enliven and Family Works.

Enliven

Enliven Positive Ageing Services helps older people to remain healthy, well and socially connected as they age.

Family Works

We deliver social services to help children, youth and families learn, grow and thrive. We offer counselling and social work support along with a range of group programmes. 

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Our Vision: Ngā Moemoeā

An equitable, compassionate and inclusive society. Kei te tae ana ki te ngākau - Achieving a heart of love.

Our Mission: Ngā Aronga Matua

Enhancing the mana of whānau to be safe, resilient and connected. Whiria ki te tangata - weave the people together.

Our Strategic Plan 

Click here to view our 2023-2028 strategic plan.

Our Journey to Co-Governance

Click here to learn more about how we are leading change for an equitable future through Co-Governance and Co-Leadership.

Our values: Ways of working / Kaimana Korowai

Aroha
Aroha

Unconditional, love, kindness

Kotahitanga
Kotahitanga

Togetherness, sharing, support

Tikanga
Tikanga

Custom, values, protocol

Kaitiakitanga
Kaitiakitanga

Guardianship, protection, conservation

Whakawhanaungatanga
Whakawhanaungatanga

Connections, heritage, relationships

Our Position on Inclusivity, Compassion and Equity

We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity, compassion and equity. We firmly denounce all forms of racism, homophobia, discrimination, and any other anti-social behaviours, and have zero tolerance for any forms of this behaviour.

We are dedicated to creating an environment where every individual feels safe, accepted, valued and supported, regardless of their race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, ability, or background. 

Our vision is to contribute to a world that exemplifies an equitable, compassionate and inclusive society. We understand that achieving this vision requires continuous effort and unwavering commitment. To that end we pledge to:

  • Embrace Diversity: We welcome and embrace people from all walks of life, recognising that our differences enrich our collective experience. We celebrate the unique perspectives and backgrounds of all people.
  • Reject Discrimination: We will not tolerate racism, homophobia, discrimination, or any form of bigotry within, or towards, our organisation. We are committed to promoting a culture of respect, fairness, and equality.
  • Educate, Listen and Learn: We are dedicated to educating ourselves about the issues surrounding racism, homophobia, and discrimination. We will foster understanding to combat these harmful behaviours. We will actively listen to the concerns and experiences of our staff and clients. Through open dialogue and continuous learning, we aim to nurture a more inclusive and compassionate society.
  • Support and Empower: We strive to provide resources, support, and opportunities for growth to all staff and clients of our organisation. We believe that by empowering each individual, we collectively strengthen our commitment to an inclusive society.

At Presbyterian Support Upper South Island, we stand together to create a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Our dedication to building an equitable, compassionate, and inclusive society is at the core of everything we do. Together, we can make a positive impact and work towards a better future for all.

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