A Timaru-based social advocacy group may only just have turned five but in that time it has amassed a team of 12 volunteers keen to celebrate at least another 12 years. Russell Hendry has been a volunteer with Anglican Care South Canterbury's Advocacy Group since the beginning and says part of his work is often about providing reassurance to those lacking confidence. “We take a friendly, positive approach with them – reassuring and encouraging – and it seems to work.”The Advocacy Group recently launched an initiative specifically for those affected by Covid-19, and has run workshops with trained counsellor Alexia Bensemann on topics such as self-care, anxiety, loneliness and shame. Helen Rodgers, a volunteer since October 2016, was drawn to the group through a desire to help people but also drive bigger changes in the social welfare system. “Advocates will inherently possess the traits of compassion, effective communication, assertiveness, creativity, perseverance and an understanding of client confidentiality.”Volunteers will receive training, for more information contact 021 134 0307 or advocacy@anglicancare.org.nz.

Source: Stuff July 20, 2020 00:56 UTC