Care On Call

20/04/2026

Flu season is on its way, so now’s a great time to think about your annual flu vaccine.

We’ll reimburse up to $40.25 for staff receiving their flu vaccination - just visit your local GP or pharmacy, get your vaccine, and send your receipt through to your local office.

Getting vaccinated helps protect both you and those around you 💙

Find out more here: https://immune.org.nz/factsheets/2026-winter-preparedness-kit

17/04/2026

📣 Announcing our new Chief Operating Officer

We’re pleased to share the appointment of Christine Issah as Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the Care on Call Group, bringing together Care on Call and The Florence Nightingale Agency as one stronger, more connected organisation.

“I’m excited to step into this role at such an important time for our organisation. This milestone reflects our shared values and commitment to delivering high-quality, person-centred care.

My focus as COO is on turning strategy into action — strengthening collaboration, creating clarity, and building momentum as we move forward together. A key priority will be supporting a smooth integration across our services, aligning systems and ways of working, and ensuring our teams feel supported every step of the way, while continuing to deliver great outcomes for our kiritaki.

Having started as a Care Coordinator and progressed through operational and leadership roles, I’m passionate about practical, people-centred care. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved and excited for what’s ahead.”

Please join us in congratulating Christine on her new role 👏🌟

02/04/2026

Today is World Autism Awareness Day 🌟

At Care on Call, we’re proud to walk alongside autistic kiritaki, whānau, staff, and members of our wider community every day. Today is about recognising and celebrating the individuality and lived experiences that each person brings.

For us, it’s not just about awareness; it’s about respect, inclusion, and creating spaces where autistic people can feel safe, heard, and empowered to be themselves. 💙🩷

26/03/2026

From 1 April 2026, people using flexible funding through Disability Support Services (DSS) will have more choice and control over how they use their funding for disability supports.

Here’s what’s changing:
• Flexible funding budgets will stay the same
• Purchasing rules will be removed
• Funding must still be used for the purpose outlined in each person’s plan
• A small number of items will still not be allowed or may require approval
• More support will be available to help people plan and manage their funding

If you already receive flexible funding, there’s nothing you need to do to prepare for these changes.

These updates build on earlier improvements, including the introduction of a nationally consistent assessment approach in February 2026, and reflect valuable feedback from the disability community.

Disability Support Services have provided Easy Read and Accessible fact sheets on the changes, which can be accessed here 👇
https://www.disabilitysupport.govt.nz/disabled-people/improvements-to-disability-support-services/marchapril-2026-factsheet

For further information, check out the links below:
👉 https://www.disabilitysupport.govt.nz/disabled-people/improvements-to-disability-support-services/flexible-funding
👉 https://mailchi.mp/comms.disabilitysupport.govt.nz/newsletter-for-providers-of-disability-support-services-10-march-55750?e=5f6b32e5f5

Changes from 1 April 2026 will give more choice, control, certainty, and continuity for disabled people who use flexible funding.

13/03/2026

Our Waikato and Central teams had a great time at the Show Your Ability Roadshow last week!

It’s always such a great opportunity to connect with people in the community, see what's on offer, and share more about how we can support you. Thanks to everyone who stopped by for a chat, we loved meeting you! 😊

03/03/2026

Care On Call were proud to support the Multiple Sclerosis Auckland Butterfly Release event!
Our Auckland Client Services Manager, John, had the pleasure of attending late last month, and it was a beautiful day for the whole whānau. The butterfly release was a truly special moment, shared by so many who came out in support. Check out these beautiful pictures John captured!
Congratulations to MS Auckland on hosting such a successful and meaningful event 🧡

27/02/2026

This month we’re celebrating a huge milestone: General Manager Christine’s 10‑year anniversary with Care On Call. 🌟🎆

Over the past decade, Christine has helped shape Care On Call into one of Aotearoa’s most trusted providers, leading with kindness, hard work, and a deep empathy for both our kiritaki and our kaimahi.

The strength and warmth of the team is a real reflection of the dedication and support Christine brings into the workplace every day. She creates space for people to grow, offers steady guidance when it’s needed, and fosters a culture built on trust and encouragement, and it shows in everything we do together.

Christine, thank you for ten years of leadership, wisdom, and heart. We’re so grateful for you, and we’re excited for all that’s still ahead! 💙🩷

18/02/2026

Multiple Sclerosis Auckland has organised an amazing Family Fun Day this Sunday, and it’s truly an event you won’t want to miss!
We’re so happy to be part of supporting this wonderful community gathering, and even more excited for the butterfly release! 🦋
Bring the whānau and join us at the Auckland Botanic Gardens this Sunday for a day full of fun and celebration 🧡

11/02/2026

Auckland Pride Month is in full swing, and the D*List has pulled together an awesome lineup of disability‑ and neurodivergent‑friendly events happening across the city. It’s an amazing resource if you’re looking for low‑sensory options, creative and crafty activities, or chances to connect with like‑minded people in welcoming spaces 🌈
A perfect way to celebrate Pride while finding events that truly work for you and your needs; check it out below! 👇

It’s Auckland Pride season! The D*List has curated a list of accessible, joyful events happening throughout February to enjoy. Happy Pride!

04/02/2026

Waitangi Day is tomorrow, and we encourage our kiritaki and kaimahi to get involved in a local community event if you can. Firstport has pulled together an awesome list of events happening across the motu; take a look below! 👇
https://firstport.co.nz/item/event/waitangi-day-2026-around-aotearoa

If you’re at the Treaty Grounds, they’ve also shared a helpful article with accessibility information to support your visit:
https://firstport.co.nz/item/event/waitangi-festival-26

Wishing everyone a meaningful and enjoyable Waitangi Day ☀️🌿

Find your nearest Waitangi Day celebration.

04/02/2026

A free online presentation is coming up for disabled young people and their families who are preparing for life after school. The Transition Collaboration group — who have supported families for over 10 years — will be delivering a practical, informative 2‑hour Zoom session. Although the presenters are Auckland‑based, the information is useful for whānau across Aotearoa.

Topics include transitioning out of school, ORS and non‑ORS pathways, transport options, Work and Income supports, community engagement, Disability Support Services, living options, and legal considerations.

There are eight sessions available throughout 2026, and you only need to register for one.

👇 Register here:
https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/o/disability-journey-into-adulthood-new-zealand-109700317271

👇 Learn more on their page:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/disabilityjourneyintoadulthood

Feel free to register if this could support you or your whānau!

14/01/2026

Over the New Year, our Central Client Services Manager, Emma, celebrated an incredible 10 years with Care on Call!

Since joining us in December 2015, Emma has worn many hats; starting in an administrative role within our accounts team before moving into coordination for the Central region. In 2021, she stepped into the role of Accounts and Finance Manager, and in October 2023, took the leap into the role of Client Services Manager for the Central and Taranaki regions.

We’re incredibly grateful for the dedication, versatility, and expertise Emma has brought to every role she’s held, and we’re so pleased to have her as part of the Care on Call team. Tēnā rawa atu koe i te mahi nui - thank you for your great work!