Services Update
Page 20
Employment update
Are you looking for a job, thinking about returning to the workforce or in employment but need assistance in retaining your job? In the last 18 months the RNZFB's Employment Service assisted over 60 members in their goals to find employment.
So, why don't you give us a go!
Employment consultants are based in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch - please phone your local office or 0800 24 33 33 and ask for the Employment Consultant nearest to you.
Children's Services
With the number of children with vision impairments expected to continue to increase, the Foundation must continue to develop and expand its quality specialist services for children and their families.
Recently we have developed a parents' newsletter, reviewed our recreation services, and we're working with BLENNZ supporting the immersion courses to ensure students receive the most appropriate service.
We also have two additional staff starting their practicums prior to taking up developmental roles in Northland and Wellington.
More Talking books
The first 1,000 new talking books have been received from the Royal National Institute of the Blind in the UK. Some will be copied on to cassettes; all will become available when the new digital talking book library is launched.
Further progress with the new library has been made with the signing of a contract with HumanWare. They will be making an internet capable player for the Foundation to trial with about 40 library users in the first half of 2006.
Moving South
Auckland-based Pacific Services, Mana Kāpō and some rehabilitation staff are moving to a new South Auckland, Homai Campus before Christmas this year. Behind the move is a need to improve services and support to our Pacific and Māori members (who largely live in South Auckland).
The new base will also improve networks and relationships with other Māori and Pacific Island community based organisations.
The team will continue to work with members in the wider Auckland area.