16/06/2026
💐 Keeping the momentum going this National Volunteer Week, with another shout out to our dedicated volunteers, like Sheree!
We asked Sheree about her voluntary mahi – here’s what she told us:
Q: What inspired you to start volunteering?
💬 When I became a Nan raising my baby mokopuna 16 years ago, I joined the local Fostering Kids support group (as it was then, before it became Caring Families Aotearoa). At first it was receiving peer support, then taking advantage of the awesome training programmes. About the time my mokopuna were leaving my day-to-day care, I was asked a couple of times by local caregivers to consider doing the Critical Support role. I said "no" each time as I thought it would trigger some of the heartbreak I had been through in the Family Court. Then one day the Critical Support Manager called to tell me more about the role. She acknowledged my concerns and outlined how I would be supported along the way.
Q: What is your role at Caring Families Aotearoa?
💬 I am a Critical Support Worker, providing one-to-one support for caregivers who have received an allegation about their caregiving of a tamaiti or tamariki in their day to day care. I provide confidential emotional support to these caregivers and advise them of the process and their rights. I make sure their voice is heard and the outcome of the investigation is fair and reasonable.
Q: What do you gain from volunteering?
💬 I get satisfaction from being able to help others, to make the process less stressful, and supporting them to make informed decisions. There can be challenging conversations but it is rewarding when caregivers feel they have been heard and understood.
Q: Any advice for someone who is considering volunteering as a Critical Support Worker?
💬 The role is not for everyone, but the training and support is very good, and you develop your skills and confidence over time. There is a lot of satisfaction from being able to provide support and reassurance to whānau during such a stressful time.
💛 Ngā mihi nui, Sheree – and to all our Regional Committee Members – for making such a positive difference for caregivers.
