Growing Through Grief is an Anglican Social Service providing "Seasons for Growth®", an educational programme of peer support groups for children and young people experiencing change, loss, and grief.
This may be due to death of a loved one, separation of their parents, imprisonment, or other changes in their life.
We also provide programmes for those affected by someone they love being seriously ill.
Growing Through Grief operates throughout the Anglican Diocese of Waiapu Diocese - Hawkes Bay, Eastland and Bay of Plenty.
We are looking for people who are able to commit to the two-day training programme (12 - 14 hours).
It is expected Companions will facilitate a minimum of two programmes a year - in an ongoing capacity.
Programmes run for nine weeks at a time, with sessions lasting one hour.
There is preparation time required before each session and check out after the session, 3 hours per week during the school term.
After training, a Companion will work alongside an experienced Companion as a Co-Companion for two programmes, before being able to lead a programme.
A Companion Manual is provided which outlines the structure of the programme.
Through an effective small group process, children explore the impact of change on everyday life, learn to recognise and understand feelings and develop sustainable coping strategies.
Sessions typically last for one hour in a school, or after school in a local church hall.
Additional time is required for travel, preparation, and set-up/pack down.
Full training for this role is provided and is delivered over two days.
Companions are also required to complete an e-learning course on the fundamentals of child protection, which takes approximately three hours.
You will be supported in your role and will initially work with an experienced Companion.
The ideal person for this role is empathetic, enjoys working with young people, is mature, reliable, and responsible.
You must have great communication skills, including listening; have a good standard of conversational English, and have your own resilience and awareness of self-care.
You must enjoy working as part of a team.
Ongoing learning is important and is part of being a Growing Through Grief Companion.
There is a full application process and interview prior to selection.
If the thought of making a positive, lasting impact, on the life of a young person appeals to you - then we'd love to hear from you.
Being able to drive and have your own transport is preferable.