Our outreach ‘Selwyn Support’ programme in partnership with Anglican dioceses offers support to seniors in need across their respective communities in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. In parallel with the network of Selwyn Centres, the Selwyn Support initiative provides health and social service navigation for seniors via Selwyn Connectors/Pou Hono.

Selwyn Connectors/Pou Hono are registered social workers who are available to assist older people who may need help with social connection, health, digital access, counselling or home care, for example, providing personalised support in ways that are culturally relevant, thus enabling people to age safely at home in the community for longer. They support seniors who have been referred (or who self-refer) by providing information about services that could help improve their everyday lives, and connecting them with those services should they wish to pursue the option. They will journey with the person until they – and their family/whānau – feel confident to self-manage the relationship, thereby enabling independence and safety for ageing-in-place.

The Connector Service is delivered free to seniors through The Selwyn Foundation’s partners Age Concern Auckland and Te Whare Ruruhau o Meri.

While promoted through parishes and the Selwyn Centres, the service is available to all vulnerable seniors in the community regardless of whether they are members of a church congregation.

If you or someone you know needs a little extra support, you can contact the Selwyn Connectors/Pou Hono as follows: