‘Maranga’ vocational support centre launched in Wellington

13 February 2018

‘Maranga’ vocational support centre launched in Wellington

Disability support provider Spectrum Care recently held a powhiri to launch an exciting new vocational service, aimed at supporting people’s skill acquisition, independence and social connection

Titled ‘Maranga – One Collective Space', the now month-old support option was named by the people accessing the vocational service and means ‘to rise up; get up; arise’. ‘One Collective Space’ was chosen by the group to represent the intention to engage and share the space with the wider community.

The launch event and powhiri was held at ‘Maranga’, located at 250 Cuba St in central Wellington (entrance off Abel Smith St), and was attended by a large number of families and people with disabilities, along with Government and sector representatives.

Autism NZ CEO Dane Dougan remarked that, “It’s great to see new support services designed to assist young adults to be productive, engaged and actively working towards open employment. The central location of the new ‘Vocations Hub’ will no doubt encourage and enable participation from across the Wellington region.”

Paul Moles, Service Leader at Wellington Needs Assessment and Service Coordination agency Capital Support was also positive about the opportunities offered by the new venue and service offering.

“It’s great to see more families accessing vocational opportunities for their loved ones. Programmes such as these will facilitate greater community access and, over time, more employment opportunities and valued roles for youth with disabilities.”

Sector collaboration was also a key opportunity offered by the new ‘Vocations Hub’, with Karen Wilton (Service and Development Manager at Life Unlimited Charitable Trust) congratulating Spectrum’s Wellington team on “…this significant achievement.”

“It’s really exciting to see this initiative up and running, and we wish you all the best with this new undertaking.
We’re looking forward to working further with you in 2018!”

Collaboration with families in the design of these supports is a key focus for Spectrum Care’s Chief Executive Sean Stowers. “Our presence in the Wellington region offers the opportunity for a partnership-based approach in providing a range of valuable new support options to people with disabilities and their families,” said Mr Stowers.

ENDS

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