The care experienced community in the Horowhenua is fairly big considering the size of the small towns that make it up. Children, young people and caregivers in the area are always looking for new ways to connect with each other. VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai. We have stepped into this space with the young people in mind and have co-designed a Tūhono group with the very young people who will be attending. Using a partnership and co-design model, VOYCE staff have consulted with the local young people and listened carefully to their voice regarding how they would like this group to run, down to which day it would run, what activities would be facilitated and even what food would be provided.
In the months leading up to the launch of this fortnightly group, this care experienced community of young people waited patiently while it was being finalised and on Thursday 15th October the launch event occurred.
We had 12 children attend, raging in age from 9-13 years old. One of our rangatahi atawhai, who is 11, has significant barriers due to his autism. With his caregiver in attendance and the support of his peers, he was able to join in as if there were none. His caregiver told us that he never gets invited to activities because of his condition and she is so grateful that he has a place where he can belong with his peers.
Another 11 year old who has a goal and desire to make more friends attended. He was somewhat nervous to attend but as soon as he arrived, two young boys ran to his side and told him they were happy to see him. His caregiver has also expressed how happy he has been since Thursday.
While we love hearing these encouraging words from their caregivers, let’s finish off with the feedback the rangatahi atawhai themselves gave us:
“It was really fun!”
“Everything was awesome”
”I loved the food”
”You listened!”
”I want more chocolate!” ❤️
