There’s a inevitable frustration that comes with the not-knowing, and that’s having an impact – sometimes in subtle ways – and, for some of us, in running low on patience. 
Those of us who are planners need order where there’s that lack of clarity – or even a stressful feeling of chaos and overload. With that in mind – having a go at “if this, then that” – as a scribbled flowchart can be helpful to mind, if it is racing.

The Retreat is here as part of a tapestry of a Community doing ‘Recovery Together” – Kotahitanga. Last week we shared some of the contents of kete for support through Grief and Loss.  This week our focus is on Tough Times. Economics. As most of us have experienced, financial problems can impact every area of our lives, and easily spiral out of control.  Some of us face the terrors of that spiral right here, right now. We want to support you and yours through this…. We have excellent friendships with Budget Services and Grant-Making Bodies – we can help you when you’re just not sure where to turn. 

In our Kete for Tough-Times, we also offer:

1. Support from our Awesome Coach
What does the next chapter look like?  Know something needs to change but not sure what?  Time spent with our Life Coach can give a fresh perspective on where you are at, a reminder of what is important, some understanding of what might have got in the way in the past, and what may be some new avenues to pursue next.

2. A Business Brainstorm
A session with a business coach may help bring some clarity on what your options are or some ideas as as to how the business can be tweaked in these changing times.  Maybe you are thinking of going self-employed or starting something and want to have a chat with someone as to whether this is viable or what some next steps might be.

3. Outreach Support Visits/Advocacy
Regular, informal catch ups face to face with a support worker to chat and be listened to. It’s a regular get together to discuss what’s been happening for you and to download what’s on your mind. This can be done in a place you are comfortable and feel safe, such as a visit to Taranaki Retreat or somewhere else like a cafe, the park or a beach.

4. Support Checkins
For some people, meeting face to face can be challenging. We understand that everyone is different and has their own way of doing things or perhaps you live out of the area but still need to chat? Whatever method you prefer to use to communicate is no problem for us. We can catch up regularly with you via email, phone, text or Skype to name a few.
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5. Health and Wellbeing sessions
Self care is an essential part of our wellbeing, and even more so when things are tough.  Sadly it is often the thing that goes out the window first.  These sessions come in many forms, and can be a great starting place to ensure that we are filling up our tanks first.  When we have our tanks full we have much more capacity to deal with what we are facing at the time, whether this be finding a job, dealing with staff, communicating with WINZ, starting a new venture.

We know these are tough times for many but if you are in position to offer some help, please consider supporting us.  You can make a donation easily from our website or if you like to know exactly where your money will be used you can choose to Shout someone a stay, or a therapeutic session or a meal – have a look here for the options available.  We appreciate every donation made towards our work, it all adds up to make a difference.  Together, we can BE the change we want to see.   And if you have a great fundraising idea (right now we need to think about alternative and out-of-the-box ways to fundraise) then we would love to hear from you!

No reira, tēna koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katou.
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Jamie Allen, Executive Officer and a guy who wishes he had the hair left to shave…