Reflections Ngā whakaaroaro - Inside this special issue - CCS Disability Action
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NATIONAL NEWSLETTER WINTER 2021 Reflections Ngā whakaaroaro Inside this special issue ‘O Captain! My Captain!’ Special edition farewelling David Matthews, Chief Executive
You can make
a difference in one
child’s life
We have children and young people who need a safe,
stable and nurturing home away from home.
If you’re interested in welcoming a child into your family,
either on a short or long term basis, give us a call to find out more
about Shared Care or Foster Care with CCS Disability Action.
Put yourself in the picture. Contact us today.
National
(04) 384 5677 or 0800 227 200
@ info@ccsDisabilityAction.org.nz
www.facebook.com/ccsDisabilityAction
www.twitter.com/ccsDisabilityA
www.ccsDisabilityAction.org.nz
2 CCS DISABILITY ACTION
Farewell to a friend
Dairne Kirton – National Board President – CCS Disability Action
Tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā tatou katoa.
Me rangatira he hoa matenga mōu kia kore
ai koe e whakarērea.
Have a chief as a friend unto death in order
that you will never be abandoned.
IT IS WITH great sadness that I acknowledge
David’s stepping down from the role of
Chief Executive. David, you have truly been
this loyal chiefly friend to us in your 21 years
of service and in the past 10 years
as Chief Executive.
David’s contribution during this time has
been of great significance. I would like
to thank and acknowledge David for his
sound, solid and innovative leadership of
our organisation through a time of rapid
challenges and changes.
David is passionate about disabled people
having equity, equality and access to supports
so that they are able to have genuine choice Dairne Kirton.
and control in their lives. His advocacy at
and over the last eleven years, she has
government levels and within the sector
demonstrated a specific interest and ability in
has made a difference – even though David
the field of employment. Mel will be tasked to
will be the first to agree that there is still a
provide effective leadership across the whole
considerable way to go.
organisation and will, I am sure, continue to
On behalf of the CCS Disability Action work hard to ensure that the vision and values
National Board, I would also like to thank of the organisation are upheld.
David’s wife Helen, his children; Jonathan,
On behalf of the CCS Disability Action
Liz and Andrew and grandchildren; Lucy and
National Board, we look forward to working
Ben, for sharing so much of him with CCS
with you Mel.
Disability Action. It is with sincere gratitude
that we thank you for your sacrifice made as Always remember, that we are
a whānau and wish you, along with David, all stronger together.
the very best for the future.
Ngā mihi maioha. Thank you with much
Looking to the future, I am delighted to be able appreciation.
to officially welcome Mel Smith to her new role
as Chief Executive. Noho ora mai. Stay well, look after yourself,
good-bye for now.
Mel has a long history with our organisation
and has a passion for working with people and
enjoys the challenges of creating workplaces
and building teams in which people can
David, you have truly been
grow and shine. Her commitment to disabled this loyal chiefly friend to us...
people and their families is unquestionable
INCLUDING ALL PEOPLE 3
Standing on firm foundations
Melissa Smith – Chief Executive – CCS Disability Action
prior to that as Regional Manager. Above
all else, these roles require leadership and
vision. This applies to the teams he has led
and the organisation, as well as the sector
itself. David has developed valuable, enduring
relationships within the sector and CCS
Disability Action that will continue far longer
than any tenure within our organisation.
These relationships have developed through
the sharing of passion, understanding and
perspectives and the bravery to have many
honest, and not always easy, conversations.
David will be remembered for the focus he
has brought to issues of importance and
his tenacity in remaining on message about
his concerns and perspective until his voice
was effectively heard. Whether this involved
internal work to develop a suite of business
systems to support the operations of the
organisation into the future or working with
disabled people and sector employees to
Melissa Smith, incoming Chief Executive
for CCS Disability Action. co-design a transformed disability support
system, his focus and determination have
Titiro Whakamuri kia Anga Whakamua always been very evident.
To move forward into the future, we must first It is also important to note that this is only
look to the past the end of David’s tenure as Chief Executive
Kia ora koutou. with CCS Disability Action and not the end
of his active involvement within the business
I AM PRIVILEGED in my first written act community or the disability sector. As an
as the incoming Chief Executive for CCS organisation, we will follow his next steps
Disability Action to be able to take this as keenly as he will follow ours and we
opportunity to recognise the work of our take this opportunity to thank David for his
outgoing Chief Executive, David Matthews. energy, vision, determination and passion
over the many years he has provided us with
At a recent New Zealand Disability Support leadership. We stand in the place we are
Network forum, I was reminded that David today on the shoulders of the focus he has
is not only part of the rich history of CCS held to get us here and we acknowledge that
Disability Action, but also a respected as we move into what comes next.
colleague and ally of many in the disability
support sector. It is important at these times
of transition that we take the opportunity to
reflect widely and remember the contributions David will be remembered for
we have valued over the years. the focus he has brought to
issues of importance.
David has worked tirelessly over the past
decade as Chief Executive and for a decade
4 CCS DISABILITY ACTION
Bringing EGL to life
Debbie Ward – National Disability Leadership Coordinator – CCS Disability Action
OVER THE PAST year, CCS Disability Action
has been delivering a series of workshops
called ‘Tēnei au. This is me, here I am’ across
New Zealand.
The purpose of ‘Tēnei au. This is me, here
I am’ is to support disabled people, whānau
and service providers to understand the
Enabling Good Lives (EGL) principles and
approach, and to explore ways to make the
most of opportunities that the EGL principles
and approach offer.
In our ‘post-COVID’ world (if such a thing
exists), it’s an ideal time for disability
communities to strengthen their voices, and
to explore better and more flexible ways of
thinking and working together.
The EGL approach is underpinned by the
following principles:
• Self-determination Debbie Ward.
• Beginning early
voices and create change. We are beginning
• Person-centred to see the fruits of this, with new community
• Ordinary life outcomes groups beginning to form to keep the
momentum gained from the workshops alive
• Mainstream first in their local area.
• Mana enhancing I believe if disabled people and their whānau
• Easy to use can apply EGL principles to their own lives,
they will be better equipped to navigate their
• Relationship building lives. I hope that the seeds planted by ‘Tēnei
The standout for me from these workshops au. This is me, here I am’ will continue to bear
is that these principles apply to disabled fruit in the years to come.
people’s lives regardless of how the disability
support system looks in practice or what In support of the
services are currently available. The potential
to bring these principles to life is possible approach.
now, across Aotearoa. Having attended
several workshops in person, it has been
amazing to watch the ‘aha’ moment attendees
have had, when they come to this realisation. You can find out more at
https://www.ccsdisabilityaction.org.
‘Tēnei au. This is me, here I am’ is also
nz/advocacy/tenei-au/
intended to connect and support communities
to have these conversations, strengthen
INCLUDING ALL PEOPLE 5
Honouring a partnership
Jonathan Tautari – Pou Ārahi – CCS Disability Action
WAITANGI DAY THIS year marked the
181st year since the signing of Te Tiriti o
Waitangi. Te Tiriti o Waitangi is New Zealand’s
founding document and, as a rights-based
organisation, is a core document of CCS
Disability Action.
Te Tiriti o Waitangi represents many things to
different people. In some cases, the Treaty
is simply a static, quaint document to be
referenced only in history or social studies
projects at school. For others, it represents
contention, struggle, anger, guilt, fear and a
myriad of other human emotions.
Every year, for 181 years, people have made
the journey to a beautiful place in the Bay of
Islands called Waitangi. In going to Waitangi
this year to commemorate the signing of
Te Tiriti o Waitangi we, like thousands of
others, demonstrated that the Treaty and the
partnership it founded, is still living today. Our
Jonathan Tautari.
conversation at the Treaty grounds about
having accessible Marae was woven into the about honouring an individual’s dignity by
fabric of many conversations about honouring ensuring that they fully direct the manner
the rights of others to be included. that we provide our support to them. Without
dialogue, conversation and allowing a
After 181 years we, as an organisation, might
space to negotiate and renegotiate new
look at the Treaty in a new and different
understandings, our partnerships will
light. If we allow it, it may talk to us about
remain stagnant, unable to support the
partnership and the absolute importance of
transformational change in a person’s life.
having an ongoing dialogue with each other to
keep that partnership healthy and alive. If that People often ask when the issues around Te
was the only message that those that drafted Tiriti of Waitangi will finally be resolved. Full
and signed the Treaty wanted us, 181 years and final settlement of issues/grievances
later, to understand – that would be powerful. can seem elusive, sitting far beyond the
horizon. However, for me, the time it takes to
In the context of our work, we strive daily reach that destination is less important than
to ensure that we work in partnership with reaching that destination together, with a
individuals, families and/or whānau. Our shared vision, in true partnership.
work is based on building relationships
through respecting the rights of others. It is
Titiro atu ki te taumata o tee moana…tākiri ko te ata.
Look beyond the configurations of the horizons…the breaking of a new dawn.
6 CCS DISABILITY ACTION
Budget 2021
Phoebe Grace Eden-Mann – National Policy Analyst – CCS Disability Action
AT THE TIME of writing this article, the 2021
Budget had just been announced.
As was expected, a significant focus of the
Budget is COVID-19. In our submissions to
Government, we urged them to look past the
pandemic and address some of the systemic
issues that New Zealand has been facing for
decades. We argued that reducing disability-
related inequality is central to achieving
the priority areas, and we strongly believe
that the Government will be restricting the
effectiveness of its initiatives if it does not Phoebe Grace Eden-Mann.
improve wellbeing for disabled people and
their whānau. Māori and Pasifika disabled people having
a lower level of disability support, compared
The top four things we were hoping to see in to pākehā disabled people. On average,
the 2021 Budget were: both Māori and Pasifika disabled people
1. Increasing the disability and child disability receive lower payments from the disability
allowances. allowance than pākehā people. This is
due to the barriers they experience when
2. Improving poor outcomes for Māori and navigating access to the various aspects of
Pasifika disabled people. the allowance:
3. Ensuring disabled people have a safe, • Māori median weekly rate $12.50.
warm, accessible and affordable home that
suits their needs. • Pākehā median weekly rate $19.65.
4. Addressing the health and mental • Pasifika people’s median weekly rate $6.40.
wellbeing issues faced by disabled people. This data is especially concerning given
Of all the issues faced by disabled people, I that disabled Māori and Pasifika people are
would argue that the first and most important more likely to have lower levels of health and
port of call would be drastically increasing wellbeing, which would put them at increased
the disability and child disability allowances. risks of adverse outcomes if they contracted
Unfortunately, we did not see increases in COVID-19.
either in this year’s budget, despite clear
There are many things that I would have
evidence there has been no shift in the level
liked to see come out of the 2021 Budget
of material hardship in these groups.
come 20th May, but increasing the disability
Currently we are lagging very far behind allowance and child disability allowance
many countries in the world when it comes should not be up for debate. Increasing
to disability-related allowances. In particular, the allowances will go a long way towards
the UK has successfully reduced the rate of addressing some of the systemic issues that
income poverty amongst disabled children disabled people face, including ensuring they
through allowances that are almost three have a safe, warm, accessible and affordable
times higher than what we have here. We home, as well as improving the health and
also have significant ethnic disparities, with mental wellbeing of disabled people.
INCLUDING ALL PEOPLE 7
‘O Captain!
My Captain!’
At the end of June 2021, David Matthews steps down as Chief Executive
of CCS Disability Action. He has served the organisation tirelessly
for over 20 years. In the words of poet Walt Whitman in his poem
“O Captain! My Captain!”, ‘the anchored ship is safe and sound’.
D
avid Matthews began with CCS From the beginning of his tenure, he
Disability Action in 2000 as a Regional demonstrated a determination to apply
Manager for the Upper South region, ‘creative’ solutions to cut through the barriers
which then covered the South Canterbury and of bureaucracy imposed by contracts and
Canterbury West Coast branches. funding models.
He came to the organisation from Special Jeanette Oliver, who is employed as a Support
Education Services, now part of the Ministry Worker on the West Coast, remembers David
of Education, where he worked as a District as a dogged advocate for people living in
Manager, then National Manager. more remote communities.
8 CCS DISABILITY ACTION
“David and the team at CCS Disability Action
offered marvellous support for my grandson
Bradley, at a time when our options as a family
were very limited. From Bradley’s earliest days
when he first received a medical diagnosis,
the team at CCS Disability Action surrounded
our family with love, practical support and
pursued all avenues to assist Bradley with his
mobility and schooling,” she explains.
David was also instrumental in helping the
Oliver family mobilise community support to
create what would become ‘Bradley House’
a popular accessible holiday home in Paroa,
near Greymouth.
DAVID HAS BEEN a valued
mentor and has taught me a lot and
has provided me with sound advice
and guidance on many occasions.
He has supported me through all my Above: Bradley and Jeanette in 2021.
challenges both professionally and Top left and right: The opening of
personally and I will miss the aroha Bradley house with Bradley, Jeanette,
and support that he has shown me. Kaumatua Johnny McGee and David.
David, you are a strong advocate for
disabled people and the organisation. Seeing CCS Disability Action’s service
Your legacy will live on. offering expand into communities that would
Go well David. I wish you nothing but otherwise be left without local support was a
the best in all your future endeavours key achievement in his 11-year tenure in the
you will be missed by many! Regional Manager’s role.
Ngā mihi aroha ki a koe. During this period, David oversaw an
expansion of the branch network, with the
Janine Hoete-Thornton,
General Manager Central region, Nelson/Marlborough branch coming into the
CCS Disability Action. Upper South region, as well as putting in
additional staff in newly established
sub-branches.
INCLUDING ALL PEOPLE 9
As Regional Manager, David was faced with “These challenges can be viewed as risks
ensuring adequate and sustainable funding or threats. I prefer to see them as
models were available to the region’s branches opportunities, out of which may emerge
and helping break societal barriers at odds new and exciting possibilities.”
with his vision of seeing disabled people enjoy
the same opportunities as their non-disabled But it was his handling of the Christchurch
peers. “There is, and probably always will earthquakes, in particular the devastating
be, the ongoing challenge of working with February 2011 event, where his local legacy
communities that will struggle to understand will be most gratefully remembered.
what an inclusive community is and looks like. As a result, the post-quake period, for all
The attitudinal barriers to the full participation its trauma, is remembered as a time that
by disabled people are often more challenging demonstrated a true spirit of togetherness.
than the obvious physical barriers such as a The hard-fought resilience of disabled people
lack of accessible public transport or ramped and their families also shone through during
access to buildings,” he explained in a this period.
Widening Horizons newsletter column.
DAVID’S RESPONSE ON the day included mobile phones for everyone,
[of the February 2011 earthquake] was flexible work hours, setting up supportive
immediate. He was so supportive of team meeting venues in cafes or meetings
everyone, checking in with the Team in his own home.
Leaders as to who was where, staying
Lyn Frazer remembers, “He was always
late to ensure that all the team were safe
asking: ‘How do we do this?’ ‘How do
and been contacted.
we ensure that the people we support
After the earthquake, David’s support are getting what they need?’ ‘What do
for the staff, all staff, was exemplary. He staff need to support people well?’ David
made himself available to everyone. He showed huge concern for staff and for
wanted to hear what was happening to support workers. We recognised later
everyone, at all times. that he was going through the same grief,
In the following days he showed true shock and despair that we were all going
leadership and was a pillar of strength through, but outwardly he was strong,
as he pulled together the team to ensure calm, concerned and caring.”
that support was sustainable. This
Lyn Frazer, former Team Leader, Canterbury West Coast, CCS Disability Action.
10 CCS DISABILITY ACTIONDavid was appointed Chief Executive of
CCS Disability Action in 2011, taking over
the position in September of that year. In a THANK YOU FOR taking a
farewell acknowledgement, Julie Fosbender, chance on me all those years ago
and I loved that I could talk with
Service Manager South Canterbury,
you about anything to do with any
summarised his commitment to the region as:
of our services or support and you
“Hard-working, loyal with a tireless focus on
instantly had a reply or suggestion.
developing a better place for disabled children
You will really be missed.
and their families.”
Lee Tua, CCS Disability Action
As incoming Chief Executive, he quickly staff member.
established the organisation as a leading
voice on inclusion and participation – raising
the bar on a national conversation on disabled
people’s desires to be genuinely included in He supported the development of major
their community in all facets of life. research projects such as ‘Family Choices’,
which revealed the heart-breaking difficulty
David has always been a strong advocate for many parents of disabled children face in
the human rights of disabled children enrolling their children at their local school.
in education. He argued publicly that all children, with the
right support, can and should attend their local
school and led the organisation’s advocacy
against residential special schools in favour
Above: Melissa Smith and David.
Far left: David (third from left) with the of intensive, community-based wraparound
Board and regional leadership group 2002. support. In this regard he was swimming
Left: David attending an opening. against the tide of popular opinion.
INCLUDING ALL PEOPLE 11“We need to develop more ways to include experiences and systematic challenges New
everyone in their local schools with their Zealanders with high support needs face.
peers. This is the only way to create lasting
solutions that enable everyone to become He also embarked on wide ranging
valued individuals in their community in later systems and infrastructure projects within
life,” David said in a media release at the time. the organisation, aimed at bolstering the
organisation’s ability to act with national
He also began publicly pushing for increased consistency, strengthen its financial
government support via additional funding sustainability and increase CCS Disability
and flexibility to address what he saw as a Action’s accountability and responsiveness to
growing gap between demand for services, disabled people.
the sector’s ability to meet these needs and
the lack of choice and control disabled people David describes himself as a “New Zealander
and their families faced. born in England” and jokes that his ‘waka’
was a 747 aeroplane. David’s commitment to
David’s early years in the role also saw the te ao Māori, te reo Māori and to creating an
launch of a new vision for CCS Disability environment where whānau hauā (disabled
Action called Te Puāwaitanga, as well as the Māori) have equitable opportunities to
launch of a major research project called flourish has been evident throughout his time
‘Article 19 – I am here’, which highlighted the with the organisation.
Ki te kahore he whakakitenga and I had asked if there was an
ka ngaro te iwi opportunity for David to acknowledge
Without foresight or vision his friend and mentor after proper kawa
the people will be lost. (protocol) had been completed. Te
FROM THE VERY first time I met Manahau agreed and recited a karakia
David in 2010, his desire to incorporate to clear the way for David to talk.
Māori cultural practice in the workplace So, our chief then gets up to start
was evident when the CCS Disability his whaikōrero in Māori as usual but
Action National Board was welcomed this time his whaikōrero had a mauri
with a pōwhiri into the Christchurch that resonated within the wharenui.
branch. At that time David was the There was a strong presence of
Regional Manager. mana and aroha. While David was in
Since then, I have been fortunate and the middle of his kōrero, much to Te
very privileged to have the chief beside Manahau’s surprise and my delight, Te
me at various Māori hui, as well as our Manahau turns to his mate and said:
strategic conversations that supported “I didn’t know this fullah was going to
the important mahi (work) within CCS kōrero Māori!” Proud moment for our
Disability Action’s Māori Disability organisation right there.
Framework. David will be sorely missed by his Māori
A lasting memory for me will be when whānau within CCS Disability Action
we went to the tangi of Life Member, and his legacy will live in the hearts and
the late Monty Daniels. Te Manahau minds of those of us who he supported.
(Scotty) Morrison, a well know television Tuu tonu koe i roto i toou ake mana
presenter was on the pae kaikōrero motuhake rangatira”.
Ike Rakena, Mangai to the CCS Disability Action Board.
12 CCS DISABILITY ACTIONDavid and Ike Rakena. Jonathan Mackie, David and BJ Clark at the 2008
Christchurch branch Christmas party.
David is described by people close to him as conversations, the power of words and leading
down-to-earth. He famously demonstrated this by example. He is a fantastic mentor and is
by regularly taking the bus to the airport for very encouraging, approachable, and fair.”
the trip home from Wellington to Christchurch,
even after incredibly long days of meetings Drawing on his knowledge and interest
and engagements. in counselling, community and capacity
development, David created an environment
“Actions speak louder than words at times where learning, research and critical thinking
and David never asked someone to do were encouraged and valued, with a view to
something that he wasn’t prepared to do,” preparing the organisation for a new way of
explains Executive Assistant Irene Wilson “We delivering services that is truly flexible and
have shared many occasions in the kitchen, centred on a person’s needs and wants.
catering, doing the dishes and tidying up.”
“David has always been generous when
She goes on to say: “I have learnt so it came to sharing learning opportunities
much from David about the importance of with both staff and governance members.
INCLUDING ALL PEOPLE 13The pursuit of ongoing professional and organisation into a place where learning was
personal development and sharing newfound encouraged to ensure we stayed on the cusp
knowledge was important. It wasn’t enough to of innovation,” explains Moira Geerkens,
just attend a conference or workshop, David National Training Coordinator.
would pose two to three reflective questions
and expected the team member to share
their thoughts widely. He encouraged staff
and governance members to not only attend I REMEMBER DAVID facilitated a
workshops and conferences, but believed leadership course at our Royal Oak
they had something important to share with office in Auckland which was well
the wider sector. All of this helped shape our attended by staff and governance.
The course focused on what it
meant to be a leader. This was
when I had just started as the Chair
of the Auckland Local Advisory
CCS DISABILITY ACTION has Committee. He taught me that one
been truly blessed to have had could lead by supporting others to
David’s leadership both as Regional become leaders – which was an
Manager for Upper South and as idea that I found really inspiring.
Chief Executive.
Allyson Hamblett, Local Advisory
Pru McLaren, CCS Disability Action Committee Chair Auckland, CCS
National Board Member. Disability Action.
14 CCS DISABILITY ACTIONMY PATH FIRST crossed David’s early Later, recognising the inadequacy of the
in his position as Regional Manager of then branch building to provide for the
[what was then known as] the Upper evolving role of the organisation, it was
South Region. In fact, it was David who his initiative which led to the sale of the
was instrumental in having me appointed original building and some other holdings
to the South Canterbury Local Executive and the designing and construction of the
Committee (LEC) – but that’s another present office building. These two actions
story! Now, as a recently retired member alone ensure David has left a legacy with
of our LEC and latterly as chair of our the South Canterbury branch.
Local Committee, I can reflect on David’s With the passage of time and my
achievements in both the roles of deepening involvement in the organisation,
Regional Manager and Chief Executive I have had the privilege of attending
of CCS Disability Action. many national governance and finance
Early in his time as Regional Manager, gatherings during David’s tenure as Chief
the Mackenzie District Council required Executive. This has given me plenty of
us, along with several other bodies, opportunity to see at first hand, and in a
to move our Lake Tekapo holiday small way contribute to, the enormous
homes to make way for Council changes the organisation has undergone
development. David was largely largely due to his foresight and guidance.
responsible for successfully negotiating CCS Disability Action is now firmly
a very satisfactory arrangement with established on a professional base, is
the Council whereby we were able a leader in the disability sector, has an
to build two magnificent and popular authoritative national voice when disability
holiday homes on freehold land in what issues are in focus and is well placed to
is rapidly becoming a major South face the undoubted challenges which lie
Island tourist destination. These enjoy ahead. For this David should be justly
a high occupancy rate and contribute proud and is due considerable credit.
significantly to our income.
Geoff Clarke, former Local Committee Chair, South Canterbury.
INCLUDING ALL PEOPLE 15This desire to extend the thought leadership David’s inclusion in this group – and in
within the organisation was set within a earlier high-level consultation on the Disability
wider context of increasingly vocal calls Strategy review – was recognition of his
for widespread change in the disability personal and professional commitment to help
support sector. create a disability support system that will
work for all disabled people and their families,
In 2011, a group – led by disabled people,
especially those who struggle to have their
whānau and allies – presented a vision and
voices heard.
principles called Enabling Good Lives (EGL)
to the government. “I am passionate about social justice and
encouraging social change which will bring
The vision is based on disabled people having
about a more inclusive world. I fully support
greater choice and control. The principles of
the principles and values of the changes
how disabled people would like to live their
occurring in the disability sector in New
lives include self-determination, with the
system investing early, being person-centred, Zealand,” he explains on the Enabling Good
Lives website.
being easy to use, supporting disabled people
to live an everyday life like others at similar After an intensive co-design process,
stages, able to access mainstream services, the group presented a cabinet paper to
being mana enhancing, and building and government, which later was to form the basis
strengthening relationships between disabled of an official system transformation prototype,
people, their whānau and community. rolled out in the MidCentral region in late
2018. While the pace of national progress is
In 2017 David was invited to be part of a
proving frustratingly slow for disabled people,
small team made up of ministry officials,
David’s involvement in establishing this
disabled people, whānau, disabled people’s
framework leaves a legacy where disabled
organisations and support providers with a
people will undoubtedly have a brighter future.
brief to take this vision and create a high-level
design of how a transformed disability support As head of one of New Zealand’s largest
system could work. disability support providers, in his later years
David joined the New Zealand Disability
Support Network (NZDSN) and others to lobby
against the unsustainability of disability support
funding. Describing the sector as reaching
‘near crisis’ he highlighted the unacceptable
impacts on the range and level of support
available – becoming a ‘go to’ for media
comment on behalf of the sector as a result.
He also spearheaded the organisation’s
lobbying efforts on welfare reform for many
years, arguing for “radical change” to address
the unacceptably high levels of inequality
disabled people and their families face.
Throughout his career with CCS Disability
Action, David has been a passionate supporter
and advocate for access within the built and
urban environment. In recent years, the
organisation has moved to both innovate and
consolidate programmes in this area, providing
a firm foundation for future development.
David outside what would become
the Christchurch branch.
16 CCS DISABILITY ACTIONDAVID AND I started with CCS always supportive. Through his support,
Disability Action within months of each leadership, and vision, we now have an
other some 21 years ago. From day one amazing group of access advocates.
it was obvious that there was going to These include our Regional Access
be change however it was the manner of Coordinators, the Mobility Parking Hub
the change that displayed the leadership team, and our branch administrators. We
qualities he has. He encouraged his have also seen Lifemark and Barrier Free
staff, by his own example, to provide the NZ integrate into the CCS Disability Action
best outcomes we possibly can for those Team and huge innovation in the form of
we support. David always acknowledged the Access Aware app.
the work that his staff carried out and David will be the first to acknowledge that
encouraged us to take responsibility for all of this was a team effort, however it
what we were doing. takes a special type of leader to bring it all
From the first time I showed an interest together. I believe David should look back
in learning about, and advocating for, at his 21 years with CCS Disability Action
an accessible environment, David was with justifiable pride and satisfaction.
BJ Clark QSM, National Manager Access and Infrastructure, CCS Disability Action.
In 2019 David signalled his intention to the
CCS Disability Action National Board to retire
the following year. But a global pandemic I’VE ALWAYS APPRECIATED
threw any thoughts of a quiet retirement David’s comments around various
into flux. The board asked him to extend issues. He takes time to reflect and
his term to guide the organisation through the response is then a considered
and beyond a crisis that had the potential to one. His comments during the
disproportionately hit disabled people. various COVID-19 lockdowns have
been calm, rational and based
Just as Christchurch-based staff saw during
on facts thus inspiring a sense of
the earthquakes, the organisation rose to the
confidence at a very difficult time.
considerable challenges faced by COVID-19.
Under David’s leadership, CCS Disability CCS Disability Action staff member.
Action remained a steady and valued presence
in the lives of the people they supported, in
many cases filling gaps where people were
left without even the most basic support.
INCLUDING ALL PEOPLE 17I WAS AROUND when David Matthews he was always upbeat and maintained
started his journey with CCS Disability working to the highest standards which
Action and lived in the region when he was a tremendous achievement.
took over as Regional Manager. I was on David has often challenged my thinking
the panel to employ his services as Chief and he has taught me a great number
Executive, worked with him during my of useful life lessons. He taught me to
time as a board member and now I see build the capacity to engage strongly
his journey about to change again. It has and mindfully in the “conversations that
been a real journey! matter,” while remaining open to emerging
I particularly remember the challenges dynamic outcomes.
David faced during the Canterbury I want to acknowledge your support David
earthquakes. His endeavours to work in and the difference you have made to
extreme conditions was incredible, and our organisation, the relationships you
he always put his staff first and foremost have made and the successes of your
in his mind. Despite the devastation of the continued work. I am sure you will be a
branch itself and rebuilding challenges, great governance leader in the future.
Wendy Coutts, Past President, and current National Board Member, CCS Disability Action.
18 CCS DISABILITY ACTIONAt the 2020 national AGM – his last as Chief David was acknowledged for his visionary
Executive – in the presence of family, friends approach to the role and for his contribution to
and colleagues David was surprised with two making a real difference in the lives of disabled
special acknowledgements. people through his passionate leadership.
Life Membership (of the national
organisation)
David has worked tirelessly for the
organisation over 20 years in his role firstly as
Regional Manager for the Upper South region
(2000-2011), and then as Chief Executive
from 2011. The organisation has been led
by David through enormous change during
this time, resulting in the organisation being
much closer to the ideal of being truly one
organisation. David’s leadership has put
CCS Disability Action on the front foot with Above and left: David and his wife Helen.
the Sector Transformation – both nationally
and internationally. This has prepared CCS “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he
Disability Action well for the changes in the stands in moments of comfort and convenience,
sector that lie ahead. but where he stands at times of challenge and
controversy.” Strength in Love, 1963.
Honorary Membership
Honorary Membership was presented to David David has demonstrated true commitment
Matthews at the AGM in recognition of valuable to making a positive difference for disabled
contributions to the Mauri of CCS Disability people during his time at CCS Disability
Action through 20 years of positive leadership, Action – particularly during times of challenge
advocacy and connections with the wider and controversy – and for that he will be
national and international disability sector. sincerely missed.
INCLUDING ALL PEOPLE 19Mapping out a
new direction
A
aron Ussher and his CCS Disability are expecting babies this year, and I am
Action Coordinator Tania Bissett make looking forward to being a new uncle again! I
an excellent team. love being an uncle.”
Both have lived experience of disability, and, Aaron has a particular interest in quiz shows
as Tania explains, she gets a lot out of their and a skill for maps: “If you give me a
time together. destination, I bet I can tell you how to get there
and how long it would take,” he says. Aaron is
“He has taught me so much about how we are friendly, kind and funny – Tania describes him
the experts in our own lives. That it is essential as “hilarious and resourceful” – but with the
to be confident in yourself and your choices. I reoccurring COVID-19 rahui, found it hard to
find that people can make assumptions about try new things.
me – what I’m interested in and what I’m
capable of doing. I’ve learnt the importance After working alongside coordinator Brenda
of telling people what it is I want and, more Williams and, more recently, Tania, Aaron is
importantly, what I do not want, from Aaron.” now setting a new, more adventurous course
for his life.
Aaron is 22 and lives in Awanui, in the far
north of New Zealand. He lives with his mum “I have watched him grow from being reluctant
Tui, dad Gavin and two laid back dogs named to try anything new, to now directing me on
Zeus and Gromit. “My family is what’s most how things will be.”
important to me,” says Aaron. “My two sisters
A recent highlight was the ‘Ruakaka Surf
Day’ event run by Tiaho Trust, which Tania
suggested he might like to attend.
Aaron uses a powerchair for mobility so
accessibility can sometimes be a real barrier.
Still, once Aaron felt keen enough to try it,
together, he and Tania planned how to make
the event a reality.“I asked Tania if she would
give it a go with me as I didn’t think I could do it
all by myself. She immediately said ‘of course’,”
explains Aaron. “I didn’t feel confident enough
to get in the water just yet, so registered as
both a volunteer and participant.” Gavin, Tui
and Aaron travelled down to Ruakaka the night
before the event. They awoke to beautiful
weather – perfect for a day in the surf.
Aaron initially worked as a volunteer, handing
out rash tops to other participants. This was
important work as the tops were donated so
Aaron and Tania.
20 CCS DISABILITY ACTIONAaron (right) and Shaz (left) at ‘Ruakaka Surf Day’.
Aaron took this responsibility very seriously. it if things were more accessible in future so
Eventually, he decided he didn’t want to miss other people who use a wheelchair can get
out on the action and asked if Tania – who the chance to go and have fun as I did.”
had travelled to the event for the day – could
He appreciates having Tania by his side when
take over. (The pair note that this was the first
he needs her. “Even if Tania has never done
year in the event’s history that all shirts
things before, she will give it a go with me if I
were returned, too!).
say I’m keen – even if it’s scary for both of us!
“I went out in the beach wheelchair with Mum. Tania treats me like everyone else. We joke a
At first, I wasn’t too sure, but it was too late to lot. Because she uses a wheelchair, that helps
turn back as they were pushing me towards me feel okay because I don’t always have to
the water! The lifeguard, Shaz from Parafed explain why I feel a certain way.”
Northland, and my mum helped me to give
Aaron is interested in trying some new
it a go. I ended up having heaps of fun. My
activities in the community so he can meet
sister, partner, nieces, and even Brenda from
new people. He’s keen to attend a CCS
CCS Disability Action and her son came out to
Disability Action Karanga Maha hui and to put
watch me. That was a cool surprise.”
his orienteering skills to good use with some
Not only has the experience got Aaron geocaching. He’d also like to build his skills
thinking about his next adventures – including with more volunteering.
surfing a little closer to home – but he’s also
“I don’t see any challenges in my life. I can
interested in seeing increased opportunities
do anything if I want to, as long as it’s my
for other disabled people to participate in the
cup of tea. If I don’t want to do something, it
local community. “Me being there helped show
doesn’t mean I can’t do it. I just maybe don’t
everyone how they could make things more
feel like it. And I know that’s my choice, so
accessible. It had been a long time since our
it’s okay.” he says.
family had done stuff together, so I would like
INCLUDING ALL PEOPLE 21Learning the art
of hospitality
L
aree Bates has an exceptional outlook “I have wanted to work in hospitality for a really
on life. The 28-year-old has experienced long time. I have good people skills and, when I
more than her fair share of knock backs come to work, I like to get stuck in and work hard!
but now, thanks to a new role, feels confident I feel really stoked to have this job. I love it!”
that her future is bright.
Laree has been supported by Service
Laree recently began regular work experience Coordinator Gareth Griffiths for two years,
at CBK, a popular eatery in Tauranga’s CBD. with a view to building her work readiness
Laree has joined the front of house team, and and securing her a job. Over this time, he
is responsible for greeting customers, taking has worked to secure and support her on
and serving orders and clearing tables. It’s a placements at a local primary school, where
role that builds on previous work experience she read to students, and later at the YMCA
and is well suited to her outgoing personality. assisting with the delivery of their after-
school programmes.
“I describe myself as a positive person. I
like to live life to the fullest and enjoy new Gareth feels the opportunity at CBK – while
adventures. If I set a goal, I will achieve it.” voluntary – will give her the opportunity to really
22 CCS DISABILITY ACTIONshine. “Laree has an infectious energy and
enthusiasm and she’s extremely dedicated and
determined. I know she will excel in this role.”
He hopes it will lead to a paid position once
Laree has had the chance to demonstrate
her capabilities. “In the past, we have been
so close to paid work, but it fell through which
was a bit of a blow for Laree,” he explains. But
Gareth was determined to find somewhere
that would meet Laree’s goal of working
in hospitality, despite the economic issues
created by COVID.
“It has been challenging to find somewhere
that will give Laree a go, especially as the
industry has been hit hard. I was looking for
somewhere that had a strong customer base
– but wasn’t too hectic – as I knew that Laree
would excel in an environment that valued
great customer service. I spoke with the
Manager, Billy, and he said he was looking for
someone who was warm and friendly. I knew
immediately that Laree would be the perfect fit
and they agreed to take her on,” he says.
Laree felt welcomed and supported at CBK
from the get-go, with the person responsible
for her on-the-job training giving her a clear
sense of what it would take for her to do well.
“They were really nice. There was a lot to learn
– like all the dishes on the menu and how they
like things to be done. They made it fun but
made sure I felt confident at the same time.
That really helped and it felt great to know that
I was ready to do a good job,” Laree says.
Laree Bates at work.
She has made a positive impression, in a short
time. “We are really pleased with Laree, she is her closer to meeting her goals. “It is really
awesome. She is doing fantastically well and awesome having people who believe in you
we like having her here,” explains Billy. and keep saying: ‘You can do it!’ It means a lot
to me.” she explains.
She is also appreciative of the encouragement
of her beloved and “incredibly supportive” It is still early days, but Laree is,
mum Ann, who has been her lifelong unsurprisingly perhaps, feeling great about
champion. She also appreciates the work what’s ahead. “The future for me is going
Gareth has done behind-the-scenes to bring to be really bright.”
I have wanted to work in hospitality for a really long time. I have
good people skills and, when I come to work, I like to get stuck in...
INCLUDING ALL PEOPLE 23Shout outs Tina Syme – General Manager Northern SHARLEEN TONGALEA, OR Shar as she is known, is based in our Auckland branch. She started with CCS Disability Action as a Coordinator in 2014 and became a Senior Coordinator in our Youth and Adults team in August 2017. Shar leads our mahi (work) with the Deaf Plus community and as proudly disabled woman, is an active member of our disabled staff group, the Disability Action Advisors. This work involves developing content and delivering Shar Tongalea. training to support staff and the community to increase their understanding of disability and role and has capably stepped into this position disability leadership. as well as juggling her own work. In addition to this, in the last 11 months she Shar does all of this and more with dedication, stepped up to cover parental leave for our humility, and good humour. We are very lucky Regional Disability Leadership Coordinator to have her in our region. Thank you Shar! Colene Herbert – General Manager Midland WE WOULD LIKE to acknowledge one of a format that worked for them. She used fax, our Support Workers, Jean Masters, who text, email, video conferencing, home visits and has been with the Waikato branch for 14 produced many videos to get information out. years. Jean is deaf herself and provides direct support and advocacy to other deaf We value her dedication to her work both and Deaf Plus people. She is also an active for the branch and within the wider contributor to the disabled community deaf community. in Waikato. Jean is easy going, optimistic and engaging, and fosters positive relationships with people she supports. She is a key member of the Health and Safety committee and adds the vital perspective of Support Workers, as well as a voice for the specific needs of deaf people, to our discussions. Jean has a passion for making a difference and worked tirelessly and creatively through the COVID-19 lockdown to ensure disabled people had access to essential information in Jean Masters. 24 CCS DISABILITY ACTION
Janine Hoete-Richards – General Manager Central
I WOULD LIKE to take this opportunity to projects that the region is involved with.
send a huge shout out to Raewyn Hailes, the For this and more we thank you for your
Central region Access Coordinator. Raewyn valued contribution and support to the work
not only supports the access needs of the we do, Raewyn. It has not gone unnoticed.
region, but also nationally. Ngā mihi maioha kia koe!
Raewyn’s ability to build strong relationships
and connections has delivered significant
benefits to our organisation and the people we
support. She has built an incredible reputation
and is well respected in all areas of her work.
She uses great initiative in all aspects of her
role and is not shy to take on anything large
or small, always achieving great outcomes
in the process.
I have appreciated her willingness to do
‘over and above’, including supporting other
Raewyn Hailes.
Melissa Smith – General Manager Southern
EARLIER THIS YEAR, the Southern region speeches of those that attended her farewell
farewelled Sue Connor from her role as and is evident in the way people hold their
Regional Quality and Training Coordinator as heads high and recognise their own potential.
well as Health and Safety support. Sue has
held several positions within CCS Disability We will miss Sue and the role she played in
Action in the Southern region and nationally. our branches and regional team as well as
During her farewell, the impact Sue has had the way she represented our region in work
on people and teams around the South Island across the country and we wish her well for
and across New Zealand was made clear. her next chapter!
Sue is a person that pushes for consistency,
but does so in a way that supports people to
get onboard with the ideas and changes she
is proposing, and this is a gift and one that the
Southern region has valued highly.
Her most important legacy to us, however, is
the support she has shown for learning and
development. Sue is the strongest advocate
for personal and professional development
and has supported people to see their potential
and gain their confidence as learners. The
difference that having one person believe
in you can make was made clear in the Sue Connor.
INCLUDING ALL PEOPLE 25What’s happening in our branches
Mainland Foundation “This has given our team an incredible boost.
We are extremely grateful to the Mainland
support welcomed Foundation for their contribution,” explains
General Manager, Janine Hoete-Richards.
STAFF AT THE Manawatu Horowhenua
branch of CCS Disability Action were The Mainland Foundation are long-term
the grateful recipients of essential office supporters of CCS Disability Action. “We are
equipment, thanks to the generosity of the pleased to be able to continue to support
Mainland Foundation. CCS Disability Action’s work in the
community,” says Nick Kouloubrakis, CEO of
A grant of $1900 was used to purchase
the Mainland Foundation.
7 workspace risers – which mean staff can
work seated or standing. The grant has not
only had a positive impact on the team’s
physical wellbeing, but also frees up much
needed funds for service delivery in the
local community.
Building project brings a street and access throughout, which means
he can walk unaided in and out of his home –
smile to tenants’ dial something that gives Steve the independence
he has longed for, for many years.
STEVE AND ROBYN are delighting in the
subtle but significant accessibility features of “It is very good and makes all the difference”
their new rental property. he explains. “We now have a home that
allows us to live independently and happily.”
The Mount Maunganui couple recently
moved into one of eight new Lifemark 4-Star The home also boasts a spacious living
certified homes, which apply the principles of area and kitchen and large wet-room style
Universal Design to the design and build. bathroom. Details include wide doorways and
hallways, light switches that are level with
Steve is deaf and uses a walker for mobility.
door handles, lever handles and tapware.
The positives start before he even enters the
front door. The home has level entry from the For Dave Orrell, Project Manager for
Accessible Properties, Universal Design
is a winning formula. “It was easy for the
designers to incorporate Universal Design
into these units, especially when we
had already specified a number of the
Lifemark requirements into our standard
house design plans.”
The smile says it all! Steve uses
a walker for mobility, so the level
entry in his new rental property
makes a world of difference.
26 CCS DISABILITY ACTIONNew Zealand’s first toy
library still going strong
TODAY, THE CCS Disability Action Waikato
Toy Library holds over 1,200 toys and
activities for children, youth and adults with a
disability. These include sensory and switch-
adapted toys, as well as a wide range of toys,
puzzles, CDs, DVDs, books and games.
It is a far cry from its humble origins as a
small number of toys housed in a cupboard
and wooden chest within the Physiotherapy
Department of Waikato Hospital.
The Toy Library was the brainchild of Miss
Gillian Gorick and it was the first in what
would become a network of toy libraries
across New Zealand.
Miss Gorick worked as the Charge
Physiotherapist at the hospital and was also
involved with what was then known as a ‘CCS Librarian Jane Martindale loves
Cases Committee’. She was inspired by a seeing kids’ faces when they
visiting lecturer who shared the English ‘Toy try a new toy.
Library’ model. of life for all of us, especially for children. Play
“All my working life I had used activities, toys develops physical, social, language, cognitive
and play to help in my work. I used ‘book’ and countless more skills. The best part for
libraries, but I had never thought of a library me is to see the joy and laughter a fresh new
being devoted to toys,” she explains in a toy can inspire. It feels great to be making
written narrative of the Toy Library’s history. these available to families across the Waikato
region,” she says.
She lobbied the then Crippled Children’s
Society board and the hospital management The service now runs out of the CCS Disability
to fund the toys (a donation of around $500 – Action Waikato branch at 17 Claudelands
a considerable sum at the time). After “much Road and is available to family of disabled
hard work behind the scenes” the toy library children and youth, with a small annual
officially began its operations in 1972. membership fee. For families who live outside
Hamilton, Jane can post a new bag of loan
Miss Gorick’s vision was to make a wide range toys every month, free of charge.
of toys available to homes which may not
The catalogue is now available digitally, which
otherwise be able to access them.
means members can select and order their
Miss Gorick still has a strong relationship preferred toys online, making them even more
with the Toy Library and leaves an incredible available to families.
legacy. “I am proud to have started such a
movement in New Zealand.”
This vision is kept alive by the current To check out the
Librarian Jane Martindale. library’s catalogue go to
“The most rewarding part of my work is seeing https://waikatotoylibrary.setls.com
all ages enjoying play. Play is an essential part
INCLUDING ALL PEOPLE 27Access Aware app welcomes
Wilsons Parking
THE ACCESS AWARE app is designed to
allow the reporting of mobility parking abuse in
real time to enforcement officers so they can
monitor the use and respond to abuse of their
parks. You can also use the app to see the
locations of known mobility park locations on a
map in real time to help you find a park when
you need it.
Research suggests that around two-thirds
of mobility parking abuse occurs in private
parking where, unlike public carparks,
enforcement is not mandatory. CCS Disability
Action is delighted to welcome private parking
provider Wilson Parking as a new partner on
the Access Aware app.
“We are thrilled to have Wilson Parking on
board”, explains Access Aware Coordinator
Raewyn Hailes. “They operate and manage
a huge number of high-profile carparks
Raewyn Hailes (second from right) across New Zealand, so their involvement
at the NZDSN awards. could be a game changer for mobility park
users. Most importantly, they are passionate
about engaging and enforcing reports so we
are excited about the difference that their
involvement will bring.”
Access Aware is now being widely used
in Christchurch, Hutt City, New Plymouth,
Palmerston North, Porirua, Rotorua,
Tauranga, Upper Hutt and Wellington with
the help of those city councils. While it’s
exciting to see the app’s reach extend and
the platform’s growing use, for Raewyn this
is tempered by the frustration that many
people still continue to misuse mobility parks.
“We have seen successes in enforcement,
signage and education which has been
excellent. Unfortunately, these sit alongside
stories of abuse and continued ignorance
of the importance of mobility carparks being
available for those who need them – so there’s
still plenty more work to do,” she explains.
Find out more about the app at www.ccsDisabilityAction.org.nz/accessaware
28 CCS DISABILITY ACTIONYou can also read
