To make a donation to GRG there are a number of options to choose from.
To make a donation to GRG there are a number of options to choose from.
We’re launching a new pilot peer support programme for grandparents and whānau caregivers of neurodivergent tamariki and rangatahi (children and young people).
This programme is funded by Oranga Tamariki and will run until June 2026. It has been designed in response to the experiences of carers in our community and aims to create supportive, practical spaces where carers can connect, learn, and feel less alone.
Many whānau carers experience high levels of stress, burnout, and social isolation. Navigating disability‑related systems and supports can be complex and exhausting — especially while caring for neurodivergent children and young people.
This programme is intended to:
When we use the term neurodivergent, we’re referring to people whose brains work differently from what is considered typical. This can include children and young people who are autistic, have ADHD, learning differences, sensory processing differences, or other forms of neurodivergence.
A formal diagnosis is not required to take part in this programme. Neurodivergence may be diagnosed, self‑identified, or suspected. We recognise that many whānau are still on their journey of understanding and seeking support.
Every child is unique, and neurodivergence is part of natural human diversity.
As part of this pilot, we are offering disability‑informed peer support groups focused on neurodivergence.
The groups are designed to be safe, respectful, and supportive spaces where carers can:
In‑person groups will be held in:
Online groups are open to carers anywhere in the country.
This programme is for:
As this programme is funded by Oranga Tamariki, carers of children currently linked with Oranga Tamariki will be prioritised. However, we encourage all interested carers to apply, as places may still be available.
If you’re interested in taking part, please complete our short application form.
Places are limited.
If you’re unsure whether this programme is right for you, we still encourage you to apply — our team is happy to kōrero and help you decide.
Alongside the support groups, we are developing a leadership rōpū made up of carers who would like to help co‑design and guide this programme as it develops. You are welcome to apply for both a support group and the leadership rōpū. If our support groups have more applications than spaces, priority will be given to those not in the leadership rōpū.
The commitment is approximately 15 hours, including fortnightly meetings, and a small koha is available in recognition of your contribution. The first meeting will be held on 24 April.
If you’re passionate about strengthening supports for whānau carers and contributing to this kaupapa, you can express interest by sending an email to office@grg.org.nz
If you have any pātai (questions) or would like to kōrero (talk) more about the programme, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Phone: 0800 GRANDS (0800 472 637)
Email: office@grg.org.nz
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