Presbyterian Support Southland
Presbyterian Support Southland
Presbyterian Support Southland (PSS) is a charitable trust which provides a range of health and social services. Our services are available to all people in the Southland community, no matter their age, gender, religion or background.
PSS is one of seven federated Presbyterian Support organisations nationally, Presbyterian Support is one of the largest social service providers in New Zealand.
Our Charter
Our Charter
Our vision is a community where all people can make the most of their strengths and feel included, valued and safe.
To make this vision a reality, we assist and encourage people facing life’s challenges. We provide a range of services in response to the changing needs of individuals and family/whānau in the wider community of Southland.
View our charter here
Our Values
We seek to live our five core values in everything we do.
| Respect | Manaaki |
| Compassion | Aroha |
| Family | Whanau |
| Community | Iwi whanau/Hapori |
| Accountability | Whakatau tika |
Enliven
Enliven, previously known as Services for Older People, specialises in retirement living, residential aged care and support to older people living in their own homes.
We operate a number of homes and retirement villages across Southland: Peacehaven Village, Resthaven Village, Vickery Court, Walmsley House and Frankton Court Cottages, with a full range of care and living options, from independent living in townhouses or cottages, to rest home, hospital and dementia care at rest home and hospital level.
We also offer community services for older people through our SupportLink services which provide support and companionship, enabling older people to remain in their own homes.
The Enliven service philosophy is some things make for healthier, happier living, no matter what your age or ability:
- A sense of community
- Friends, family, whānau
- Giving and receiving
- Making decisions for yourself
And most of all, practical support when you need it.
Family Works
Family Works offers a wide range of support services to families/whānau, children and young people in the region. From counselling and social work support to parenting programmes, we work alongside families as they face challenges and support them to flourish.
We provide essential services today for tomorrow’s generations in our community.
At the heart of our work is an understanding that:
- Life is challenging.
- The role of parents is crucial and the most important job anyone will ever have.
- Families are the best places to grow happy, healthy children and young people.
- Families are the backbone of each and every community..
Presbyterian Support Regions
Presbyterian Support Southland is one of seven federated Presbyterian Support organisations across New Zealand. Our services vary based on regional needs.
For more information on services available in other regions, please click the links on the map.
History
The unmet needs of children in Invercargill led to Presbyterian Support Otago opening Cameron Children’s Home in 1917. The Southland Association of Presbyterian Support was formed in 1919 and took over the operation of this Home. From this, residential childcare continued as the main area of work over the next 40 years.
Although the care needs of older people had been apparent since the mid 1930’s, it wasn’t until May 1938 Cameron Home (now redundant as a children’s home) was reopened as a Home for “elderly ladies”. Since then, our first purpose-built rest home/hospital at Peacehaven opened early in 1954, and the range of services offered to older people has substantially expanded to multiple homes across the region.
The introduction of the domestic purposes benefit reduced the number of children needing residential care and our last children’s home closed in 1989. There was still a desperate need for social services to support children, young people and their families, and in 1991 we were approved as CFSS & Community Service and since then have expanded to offer a wide range of services under Family Works.
Chronology
In 1917, the Presbyterian Support Southland Committee was established with a clear mission to provide care and support to the growing community of Southland. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of an enduring legacy of service and compassion.
That same year, the Committee opened the doors to Cameron Home, a pioneering initiative that set the foundation for what would become over a century of dedicated care.
Cameron Home was a place of refuge and support, offering vital services to the elderly, and it quickly became a cornerstone in the community.
The establishment of both the Committee and Cameron Home in 1917 was the starting point for a long-standing commitment to enhancing the lives of those in need throughout the region, setting the stage for the growth and expansion of Presbyterian Support Southland's services in the years to come.
In 1919, Presbyterian Support Southland marked a significant milestone with the opening of Gladstone Home, which provided a vital new space for those in need of care and support. The Home quickly became a haven for many, offering both shelter and a supportive environment for residents.
That same year, on July 1, Southland officially became a separate association, recognising the region's unique needs and establishing a distinct identity within the broader Presbyterian support network.
This change was a pivotal moment, as it granted greater local autonomy in decision-making, allowing for more responsive and tailored services. It also paved the way for the establishment of Presbyterian Support Southland as an independent entity, initially known as PSSA Southland.
This move was an essential step in the growth and development of the organisation, ensuring that the specific needs of the Southland community could be met with greater focus and dedication.
In 1933, the Presbyterian Support Southland Association took a significant step forward by adopting a new constitution. This important change marked an evolution in governance, laying the foundation for more structured and effective management as it continued to expand its services.
The adoption of the new constitution was a reflection of the Association’s growth and its commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of the Southland community.
By formalising governance procedures and creating clearer frameworks for decision-making, the new constitution helped strengthen the ability to meet the diverse needs of its residents and the wider community.
In 1934, Allison Home was officially opened, marking a significant development in Presbyterian Support Southland’s ongoing mission to provide vital support and services to the community.
The Home quickly became a key facility, offering a place of care for those in need, further expanding the organisation’s capacity to serve Southlanders.
At the same time, Gladstone Home was closed, a poignant moment that reflected the changing needs of the community and the evolution of the services provided.
While saying goodbye to Gladstone Home, the transition to Allison Home represented a step forward in the growth and commitment to adapting to the needs of its residents.
On April 10, 1948, Inglenook Home officially opened in East Gore, marking a significant expansion in Presbyterian Support Southland’s ability to provide care and support across the region.
The opening of Inglenook Home offered new opportunities to serve the local community, particularly in the eastern part of Southland, where demand for care facilities was increasing. The Home quickly became a vital resource, providing a safe and supportive environment for its residents.
At the same time, Cameron Home underwent a significant transformation. Originally established as a general care facility, it was converted into a residence specifically for elderly women, reflecting the changing needs of the community and the organisation’s commitment to adapting its services.
This shift in focus allowed Presbyterian Support Southland to better cater to the unique needs of older women, ensuring that they received the appropriate care and attention in a comfortable and secure environment. Together, these changes marked an important chapter in the organisation’s history, helping to further its mission of supporting vulnerable members of the Southland community.
In 1951, the appointment of the first full-time field officer marked a significant milestone for Presbyterian Support Southland, underscoring the commitment to providing dedicated, on-the-ground support to the Southland community. This new role was vital in enhancing the outreach and responsiveness of the organisation, ensuring that individuals and families in need could receive timely assistance and guidance.
That same year, the foundation stones for Peacehaven were laid, signaling the beginning of an important new chapter.
Peacehaven was envisioned as a comprehensive care facility, designed to create a compassionate, supportive space for Southlanders, particularly the elderly and those requiring long-term care.
The development of Peacehaven represented a major step forward for Presbyterian Support Southland, expanding its capacity to serve the region and offering a model of care that would continue to evolve in the years to come.
In 1952, the Presbyterian Support Southland Association received a remarkable gift—the donation of Sutherland Home by the Sutherland family. This generous contribution significantly enhanced the Association’s ability to provide care and support to the community, offering a new space for those in need of housing and assistance.
Sutherland Home became an integral part of the organisation’s services, and its addition marked an important milestone in the growth of Presbyterian Support Southland.
The gift not only reflected the Sutherland family’s commitment to community welfare but also strengthened the Association’s foundation, allowing it to expand its reach and impact in Southland.
This donation was a testament to the enduring values of community, compassion, and support that have remained central to the work of Presbyterian Support Southland for many years.
In 1954, Presbyterian Support Southland experienced a significant transition with the closure of Cameron Home. Its residents were transferred to the newly completed Peacehaven facility.
On February 24, Peacehaven Rest Home, Hospital, and rental cottages were officially opened, offering a modern and comprehensive approach to elder care.
This development represented a new era of service, providing a welcoming and supportive environment for Southland’s elderly population.
On February 17, 1956, Resthaven Rest Home and Hospital were officially opened, marking a significant milestone in Presbyterian Support Southland’s efforts to expand its care facilities.
Resthaven became a vital resource for the community, offering both residential care and hospital services, further enhancing the organisation’s ability to support Southlanders in need of long-term care.
That same year, a new head office was established at 14 Don Street, creating a centralised hub for operations and reinforcing the organisation's presence in Southland. The new office not only provided a more effective space for managing the growing network of services but also symbolized the increasing reach and influence across the region.
Together, these developments highlighted Presbyterian Support Southland’s ongoing growth and its commitment to providing high-quality care and support to the Southland community.
In 1957, Presbyterian Support Southland expanded its services to include children, with the first children being admitted to Sutherland Home. This marked an important step in the growing commitment to supporting vulnerable young people in the region.
Sutherland Home, previously focused on providing care for adults, now became a home for children in need of care and support.
Additionally, on June 3, Norwood Hostel for girls officially opened, offering a nurturing environment specifically for young women. This new facility provided accommodation, care, and guidance for girls who required a safe place to live while receiving the support they needed to thrive.
The opening of Norwood Hostel reflected Presbyterian Support Southland’s ongoing dedication to addressing the needs of young people in the community, helping to ensure they had the opportunities and resources to build a better future.
In 1958, Presbyterian Support Southland made a significant contribution to the broader community by supporting the establishment of Corstophine, a home dedicated to intellectually disabled women in Dunedin. This initiative reflected the organisation’s commitment to inclusivity and its recognition of the diverse needs within the community.
Corstophine was created to provide a safe and nurturing environment for women with intellectual disabilities, offering them the care and support necessary to lead fulfilling lives.
Presbyterian Support Southland’s involvement in the establishment of this home demonstrated its proactive approach in addressing gaps in services and advocating for vulnerable groups.
This contribution was another important step in the mission to extend its reach beyond traditional care services, ensuring that the needs of all people were met with compassion and dignity.
In 1961, Presbyterian Support Southland underwent several key changes that reflected its growing commitment to meeting the diverse needs of the Southland community.
Allison Home was closed, and the boys residing there were transferred to the newly established Tweed Street Home, a facility designed to provide specialised care for young boys in need of a safe and supportive environment. This transition marked a significant step in the organisation's ongoing efforts to adapt its services to best serve the changing needs of the region.
That same year, Highfield Children's Home officially opened, offering dedicated care and support to children. Highfield became an essential part of Presbyterian Support Southland's services, providing a place of safety and nurturing for children who required care outside their family homes. This marked a significant development in the commitment to supporting children in need of long-term care.
Additionally, the Peacehaven Chapel was officially opened, providing a tranquil space for reflection, connection, and spiritual support. The chapel became a place where residents, staff, and the wider community could come together for moments of prayer, reflection, and community-building, further enriching the holistic care offered at Peacehaven.
In 1964, significant changes were made to Presbyterian Support Southland's facilities, as Tweed Street Boys' Home and Inglenook Home in East Gore were closed.
These closures marked a turning point in the organisation’s approach to care, reflecting the evolving needs of the community and the shifting landscape of social services.
The closure of Tweed Street Boys' Home was part of a broader strategy to reassess and reallocate resources to better serve the region.
Similarly, the closure of Inglenook Home in East Gore signified a change in how care services were provided in the area, aligning with newer models and updated facilities that offered improved care environments.
These transitions illustrated the continued evolution of Presbyterian Support Southland’s services, as the organisation adapted to meet the growing demands for more modern and specialised care options for Southlanders.
While the closures marked the end of certain facilities, they also paved the way for new opportunities and improvements in care provision across the region.
In 1965, Inglenook Home was opened on Ardwick Street in Gore, marking an important development in Presbyterian Support Southland's service offerings.
This new facility provided an updated and improved environment designed to better meet the needs of the community, particularly those requiring residential care.
The opening of Inglenook Home reflected the ongoing commitment to enhancing the quality of care and support being provided, ensuring that individuals in the Gore area had access to a safe, comfortable, and supportive living space.
The move to a modernised facility was part of the broader efforts by Presbyterian Support Southland to adapt and evolve in response to the growing demand for services and the changing needs of the region.
In 1967, Presbyterian Support Southland expanded its operational capacity with the establishment of a new office building on the grounds of First Church, Tay Street. This new headquarters marked another important milestone in the organisation's growth, providing a central location to support the increasing administrative demands of its expanding services.
Officially opened on May 26, the building was designed to offer a more modern and efficient space for coordinating activities. It provided staff with a functional environment to oversee the diverse programs and services that were being offered across Southland.
The establishment of this new office building not only reflected the growth of Presbyterian Support Southland but also represented its commitment to strengthening its infrastructure to better serve the community.
The new headquarters allowed the organisation to streamline its operations and continue its mission of providing essential care and support to those in need across the region.
In 1970, Norwood Hostel was closed, and its residents were transitioned to other suitable accommodations. This change was part of Presbyterian Support Southland’s ongoing efforts to reassess and refine its care services, ensuring that individuals received the most appropriate care in updated facilities that met their evolving needs.
At the same time, a significant development took place with the completion of a residential extension to Resthaven. This expansion increased the facility's capacity to care for more individuals, allowing the organisation to better serve the growing demand for its services.
The extension not only enhanced the accommodation available but also contributed to improved services, ensuring that Resthaven could continue to provide high-quality care for those in need.
In 1971, the Iona Wing at Peacehaven was commissioned, marking a significant enhancement to the facility’s capacity to deliver specialised care.
This carefully designed addition provided expanded living spaces and improved services, particularly tailored to meet the needs of residents requiring dementia care.
The commissioning of the Iona Wing underscored Presbyterian Support Southland's commitment to adapting its facilities to address the evolving demands of the community, ensuring compassionate and high-quality care for Southlanders. This development further solidified Peacehaven's role as a leading provider of aged care services in the region.
Presbyterian Support Southland collaborated with the Anglican and Methodist churches to establish the PAM Opportunity Shop.
This initiative marked the beginning of a successful partnership aimed at providing affordable goods to the community while supporting the organisation’s social services.
In 1975, several significant changes took place within Presbyterian Support Southland, reflecting its ongoing expansion and commitment to meeting the needs of the community.
One of the key developments was the transfer of Vickery Court to the Association, effective from September 1. This acquisition further expanded the organisation’s housing and care services, allowing Presbyterian Support Southland to offer more accommodation options for individuals requiring support.
Additionally, six new flats were opened in Gore, providing much-needed housing in the region. This was part of the broader effort to address the demand for suitable accommodation, particularly for those needing independent living spaces with access to care and support services.
In a significant shift, Highfield Children's Home was closed. This marked the end of an era for the facility, with the remaining residents being transferred to alternative homes. The closure reflected changes in care models and a reorientation towards providing services that were better aligned with the evolving needs of children and families.
In 1976, Highfield was repurposed and converted for use by individuals with physical disabilities, reflecting Presbyterian Support Southland's ongoing commitment to providing specialised care and support for individuals with diverse needs.
This transformation allowed Highfield to better serve a growing population requiring tailored services, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for those with physical challenges.
That same year, Presbyterian Support Southland took over the Victoria Memorial Home, further expanding its network of facilities and services.
This acquisition allowed the organisation to extend its reach and capacity to support the Southland community, particularly those needing long-term care.
On March 19, Walmsley House was officially opened, providing accommodation and care facilities for the Invercargill community. That same year, a hospital wing was added to Vickery Court, further enhancing its capacity to support residents with complex health needs.
A part-time Homes Chaplain was also appointed, and six new cottages were built at Resthaven, offering residents more independent living options within a supportive environment.
In 1980, Inglenook Home was closed as a facility for children, marking the end of its role as a care home for young residents.
This closure was part of the ongoing evolution of Presbyterian Support Southland's services, reflecting changes in the way care for children and families was being provided.
The closure of Inglenook signified a shift in focus toward other forms of community support, aligning with the organisation's growing commitment to adapting its services to better meet the needs of the Southland community.
On March 28, 1981, Presbyterian Support Southland celebrated the official opening of a second group of six flats at Resthaven. This expansion provided additional independent living options for residents, offering them a comfortable and supportive environment within the broader Resthaven community. The new flats reflected the commitment to enhancing housing choices for Southlanders, empowering residents to maintain their independence while having access to the care and services they needed.
In 1982, Presbyterian Support Southland took a significant step in repurposing community facilities to address evolving needs. The Wyndham Maternity Hospital was leased from the Southland Hospital Board and converted into a home for the elderly.
This transformation provided much-needed accommodation and care for older Southlanders, demonstrating the commitment to adapting existing infrastructure to better serve the community.
The initiative highlighted Presbyterian Support Southland's dedication to ensuring that elderly residents had access to safe, supportive, and comfortable living environments.
In 1984, Presbyterian Support Southland expanded its services by purchasing the IHC Hostel Kindhaven, further enhancing its capacity to support individuals with diverse needs.
Alongside this acquisition, the organisation underwent a significant rebranding, adopting the name Presbyterian Support Services Southland.
This change reflected its growing range of services and reinforced its mission to provide holistic care and support to the Southland community.
In 1986, Presbyterian Support Services Southland achieved several significant milestones, reflecting its continued growth and commitment to community care. The Victoria Memorial Home was reopened on Ruru Street, utilising the reconstructed Kindhaven Hostel to provide an updated and welcoming facility for residents.
Additionally, the organisation's office building received a second-story addition, creating more capacity to support its expanding operations and administrative needs. Another key development that year was the appointment of the first full-time Homes Chaplain, highlighting a focus on providing spiritual care and support to residents across all facilities.
These advancements underscored Presbyterian Support Services Southland’s dedication to improving its infrastructure and enhancing the quality of care for the Southland community.
In 1989, Presbyterian Support Services Southland marked both an ending and a new beginning.
On December 1, the Whakatipu Home in Frankton was officially opened, extending the organisation’s reach and providing a new, purpose-built facility to serve the Queenstown Lakes community.
At the same time, Sutherland Home, which had been a cornerstone of care for many years, was closed.
In 1990, Presbyterian Support Services Southland made significant advancements in its care offerings. The Wyndham Home was purchased from the Southland Area Health Board and underwent a comprehensive renovation and modernisation. This investment transformed the facility into a contemporary and welcoming environment, ensuring it met the highest standards for elderly care.
Additionally, the Iona Wing at Peacehaven was converted into a secure dementia care area, providing specialised support for individuals living with dementia. This development underscored the organisation’s dedication to addressing the complex needs of Southlanders, offering enhanced care options and ensuring a safe, supportive environment for residents and their families.
In 1991, Presbyterian Support Services Southland expanded its impact by gaining approval as a Child and Family Support Service (CFSS) and Community Service under sections 396 and 403 of the Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989.
This approval enabled the organisation to offer foster care, counseling, and social work services across Southland, significantly broadening its support for vulnerable families and children in the region.
Additionally, the first seven cottages at the Frankton site were occupied, providing independent living options within a supportive community setting.
These milestones highlighted the organisation’s commitment to addressing diverse needs, from child welfare to housing, while continuing its tradition of care and support throughout Southland.
In 1993, a recreation room was added to Whakatipu Home, creating a dedicated space for residents to engage in social, leisure, and therapeutic activities. This addition reflected the commitment to creating a vibrant and inclusive community atmosphere within its care facilities.
The same year saw the establishment of SupportLink, initially launched as the Home Support Service. This initiative provided essential in-home assistance to individuals, enabling them to maintain their independence while receiving personalised care and support.
In 1995, Presbyterian Support Services Southland introduced Temper Tamers, a pioneering program aimed at helping individuals develop strategies for managing anger and emotional regulation. This initiative would later evolve into Cool Families in 2012, reflecting a shift toward broader family-focused psychological support.
Additionally, the organisation began offering psychological services to the community, which continued until 2015, underscoring its commitment to mental health and well-being.
That same year, the remaining 11 cottages at Frankton Court were completed, finalising the development of this independent living community. These cottages provided modern, comfortable housing for residents seeking a balance of independence and support, further enhancing the extensive range of accommodation options.
In 1996, Presbyterian Support Services Southland underwent a significant transformation. Vickery Court was refurbished, modernising the facility to better meet the needs of its residents and ensuring a higher standard of care.
That same year, SupportLink was extended to Queenstown, broadening its reach and providing more Southlanders with access to in-home support services, allowing them to live independently while receiving the care they needed.
In addition to these developments, the organisation officially adopted the name Presbyterian Support, streamlining its identity and reinforcing its commitment to providing a broad range of social services across Southland.
In 1998, Presbyterian Support Southland introduced several significant initiatives to support the community. The Buddy Programme was launched in Invercargill, aimed at providing mentorship and support to children and young people, fostering positive relationships and personal growth.
Additionally, grief groups were established to help individuals navigate loss and bereavement, offering a space for support and healing. These groups would remain an important part of the organisation’s services until they were placed on hold in 2012.
That same year, Wyndham Home was handed over to the community, marking the end of its time as a Presbyterian Support Southland facility. This transition allowed local organisations or groups to take on the responsibility of managing and operating the home, ensuring its ongoing care and use in the community.
In 1999, Presbyterian Support Southland achieved significant milestones in its infrastructure and service delivery. The Resthaven rebuild was completed, modernising the facility and enhancing the care and living environment for its residents. This renovation marked a major step in the ongoing commitment to providing high-quality accommodation and services.
That same year, the Walker Trust cottages were taken over by Presbyterian Support Southland, expanding its capacity to offer housing and care options to the community.
Additionally, Stage I and II of the Peacehaven rebuild were completed, further improving the facility and ensuring it could meet the evolving needs of its residents. These developments represented the continuous investment in facilities, reflecting the dedication to maintaining and enhancing the standard of care for Southlanders.
In 2000, Presbyterian Support Southland marked another significant development with the completion of Stage III of the Peacehaven rebuild, further expanding the facility to better meet the needs of its residents. This addition was part of the ongoing commitment to enhancing the care environments and ensuring they remained aligned with contemporary standards.
In the same year, Victoria Memorial Home was sold, reflecting a strategic decision to focus on other areas of care and community services. This transition allowed the organisation to allocate resources and attention to expanding its facilities and services in other parts of Southland.
In 2001, Presbyterian Support Southland continued to expand its services and facilities. The Buddy Programme was launched in Queenstown, extending the successful initiative to provide mentorship and support to local children and young people, fostering positive relationships and personal development in the area.
Additionally, the Vickery Court Hospital rebuild was completed and opened, further enhancing the care provided at the facility and expanding its capacity to support residents with complex health needs.
Resthaven also underwent significant improvements, with an extension that included a dementia care area, ensuring that residents living with dementia had access to specialised care in a safe and supportive environment.
In 2003, Presbyterian Support Southland introduced a Parenting Programme designed to provide support and guidance to parents, helping them develop skills and strategies to enhance family life. This program became an important part of the organisation's offerings, supporting families across the region.
The Live-in Support Situation was also initiated in 2003, offering residential care and support for individuals in need of more intensive assistance. This service continued until 2015, providing a safe, supportive environment for those requiring a more hands-on approach to care.
In terms of facility developments, the old Vickery Hospital was converted into a rest home, creating a comfortable and secure living space for elderly residents. Additionally, the Iona Hospital was extended, further enhancing its ability to serve those in need of specialised care.
In 2004, Presbyterian Support Southland made significant strides in expanding its residential care offerings. The first of 19 townhouses at Peacehaven was occupied, providing modern, independent living options for residents while still benefiting from the supportive services offered at the facility.
The Iona Resthome also saw improvements with the relocation of its level dementia care to two new 10-bed units. This provided a dedicated, purpose-built space for residents living with dementia, ensuring they received specialised care in a safe and comfortable environment.
Additionally, Stage I and II of the Vickery Court Resthome rebuild were completed, modernising the facility and increasing its capacity to serve the elderly community.
In 2005, Presbyterian Support Southland rebranded its social services under the name Family Works, reflecting a more focused and cohesive approach to supporting families in the region. Along with this rebrand, the Strengthening Families Service was introduced, aiming to support families facing challenges by coordinating services and creating comprehensive support plans.
The organisation also began offering Demand Management and Care & Protection Assessments for Child, Youth and Families in Invercargill, expanding its role in child welfare and protection. This service evolved in 2009 into a service unit contract, streamlining the delivery of assessments and support.
In terms of residential care, Highfield Home was closed, with its remaining residents transferred to Vickery Court, which offered better facilities and services.
Finally, the remaining townhouses at Peacehaven were completed, marking a significant milestone in the development of modern, independent living spaces for older Southlanders.
Additionally, plans were made for the construction of another seven townhouses at Peacehaven, further expanding the community and residential care options available.
In 2006, Presbyterian Support Southland reached several key milestones in its service expansion. The last seven townhouses at Peacehaven were completed, finalising the development of this modern and supportive living community. These townhouses provided independent living options for older residents, while still being part of the broader Peacehaven care facility.
The Vickery Court Rest Home rebuild was also completed, offering a fully renovated and modernized facility for elderly residents. This rebuild ensured Vickery Court could continue providing high-quality care in a comfortable and updated environment.
Additionally, the SupportLink service was extended to Gore, making in-home support services more accessible to residents in the area and helping them maintain their independence while receiving the care they needed.
The Buddy Programme was also launched in Gore, expanding the mentorship and support services for children and young people in the region.
In 2007, Presbyterian Support Southland introduced several key developments to enhance its services and community impact. The Family Start Programme was launched, providing support to vulnerable families with young children, focusing on helping parents build strong foundations for their children's development. This programme became an important part of the organisation's early intervention efforts, empowering families to thrive.
The old Iona building at Peavehaven was redeveloped into a Café/Recreation Centre, transforming the space into a community hub where residents and visitors could gather, socialise, and engage in recreational activities. This change aimed to provide a vibrant, inclusive environment for both residents and the broader community.
In response to the evolving needs of elderly care, the organisation made a strategic decision to change its “Aged Care” division to “Services for Older People”, reflecting a broader, more holistic approach to supporting seniors in the community.
Additionally, training for enrolled nurses in Southland was introduced, addressing the growing demand for qualified professionals in the aged care sector. This initiative helped ensure that there was a skilled workforce ready to meet the needs of an aging population, further strengthening the organisation’s commitment to high-quality care.
In 2010, Presbyterian Support Southland introduced a Dedicated Intake Service, designed to streamline the process of accessing care and support services. This service aimed to provide individuals and families with clearer pathways to the right services, ensuring a smoother transition into the appropriate care options and improving overall efficiency.
That same year, Whakatipu Home was transferred to new owners, marking the end of its time under Presbyterian Support Southland’s direct management. The transfer allowed the home to continue operating under new leadership while ensuring its ongoing care and services were maintained for the local community.
In 2011, Presbyterian Support Southland introduced the Young Parents Service, aimed at supporting young parents in navigating the challenges of raising children. This service provided tailored support to help young families thrive, with a focus on parenting skills, education, and well-being, empowering young parents to build a strong foundation for their children’s future.
The Incredible Years Programme was also launched in 2011, focusing on enhancing the emotional and social development of children. This evidence-based programme aimed to support parents and caregivers in promoting positive behavior and fostering healthy child development.
Additionally, the central office of Presbyterian Support Southland was relocated from Tay Street to 181 Spey Street, providing a more accessible and modern space for staff and clients. This move was part of the ongoing commitment to improving operational efficiency and service delivery to the community.
In 2012, Presbyterian Support Southland launched the Cool Families Programme, aimed at supporting families with children to manage and reduce stress, improve family relationships, and build stronger communication and coping strategies. This programme became a vital tool in helping families thrive by providing practical support in challenging situations.
The Peacehaven Walkway was officially opened, creating a scenic and accessible pathway that connected the Peacehaven community to the surrounding area. This walkway not only enhanced the physical environment of the Peacehaven site but also provided a space for residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities, promoting well-being and social interaction.
Additionally, the Fresh Start Contract was introduced, which allowed Presbyterian Support Southland to offer targeted support services to individuals and families in need of assistance with life transitions, helping them build a stable foundation for the future.
In 2013, Presbyterian Support Southland introduced the Circle of Security programme, an attachment-based early intervention initiative aimed at strengthening the relationship between parents and children. This programme focused on helping parents understand their children's emotional needs and providing strategies to foster secure attachment, which is essential for healthy emotional and social development.
The Out of Gate programme was also launched in 2013, providing support for individuals leaving prison and transitioning back into the community. This service focused on reducing reoffending and helping participants reintegrate successfully into society by offering practical support, including housing, employment assistance, and emotional guidance.
These initiatives were part of Presbyterian Support Southland’s broader commitment to supporting vulnerable individuals and families throughout their life journey.
In 2015, Presbyterian Support Southland introduced the Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) service, aimed at helping families resolve conflicts in a constructive and mediated manner.
This service provided families, particularly those involved in separation or custody disputes, with a neutral space to work through their issues with the support of trained professionals. The goal was to help families reach mutually agreeable solutions, reducing the need for court intervention and supporting healthier family dynamics.
Additionally, the AMGR8 programme was launched, focusing on youth development and supporting young people in building positive skills for life. The programme aimed to engage youth in proactive, skill-building activities that helped them make better choices, improve their relationships, and reduce the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors.
In 2018, the Cool Families Programme concluded after several years of supporting families across Southland. The programme had focused on helping families with children to strengthen relationships, improve coping skills, and reduce stress.
Through a combination of practical support and structured strategies, it aimed to enhance the well-being of families facing challenges.
The conclusion of the programme marked a shift in focus as Presbyterian Support Southland continued to evolve its services to meet changing community needs. While the Cool Families Programme ended, its impact on the families it supported remained a key part of the organisation’s legacy.