PSNZ Positions

Presbyterian Support holds positions on key issues affecting either those we serve, or our own service workforces. They guide our advocacy work and help us know when we should raise our voice.

PSNZ Position on Dementia/Mate Wareware

Dementia is the term used commonly around the world when a person experiences a gradual loss of brain function due to physical changes in the structure of their brain. It is not a normal part of ageing but a condition that gets worse over time and is usually diagnosed only when it begins interfering with a person’s ability to function in daily life. In Aotearoa New Zealand the equivalent word in Te Reo is Mate Wareware.

PSNZ Position on Dementia/Mate Wareware

PSNZ Position on Mental Health

How do you turn the tide? How can we begin to ensure through persistent hard times “a new norm” for Aotearoa, that all New Zealanders feel connected, with a sense of belonging, meaningful purpose and hope for the future, that enriches their pae ora, mauri ora and whānau ora?

PSNZ Position on Mental Health

PSNZ Position on Poverty

New Zealand is a “high-income nation”, which means no one here should have to worry about how to afford essentials like healthy food, hot water or the internet. Even our poorest families and whānau should have sufficient income to live their lives with mana and dignity, join in local activities, and feel connected to their community.

Unfortunately, this vision is not being realised.

PSNZ Position on Poverty
Housing Position

PSNZ Position on Housing

Despite a warm safe and affordable home being a fundamental human right, in Aotearoa in 2021 there are 41,644 New Zealanders currently “severely housing deprived” . This group includes ‘rough sleepers’ or people without shelter (3,522), people in temporary accommodation as they look for a home (7,567), as well as people in severely crowded private dwellings (30,555). In focusing narrowly on the physical element of ‘shelter’, housing policy makers have missed the critical social element of connection and human contact that defines the home. Presbyterian Support NZ urges government policy thinking to be more influenced by concepts of home, some shared by all but some distinct and unique to particular populations.

PSNZ Position on Housing

Family Works New Zealand Policy: Family Violence

The safety of Tamariki, rangatahi and their whānau is fundamental to their wellbeing. Family Works is committed to supporting families to be violence free by providing services in a culturally appropriate way; maximising safety and wellbeing.

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Family Works New Zealand Policy: Child Protection

Tamariki and rangatahi have the right to be safe from abuse and harm, and to be treated with respect and dignity. Family Works is committed to protecting the safety and wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi and their whānau and families, and the prevention of child abuse.

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