Te Kahu Pairuri Hospice Taranaki Inc. Chairman's Report 2021/2022

It's very fortunate that Te Kahu Pairuri Hospice Taranaki thrives on challenges.  I have written a number of annual reports and they are littered with the issues which we have confronted and overcome.  it hardly caused a ripple when more appeared on the horizon, not all new, but all requiring that positive approach we have always demonstrated.

Covid didn't disappear.  it is still hanging around in health facilities like ours.  But now we have the experience to handle it.

Retail sales were "flat" and we went through a complex trading period.  Trade Me sales were also static and funeral donations were reduced because many were held on line.  Staff recruitment was difficult but innovative advertising partly solved the problem.

But throughout this time we never flinched.  Budget deficits were considered and made public.  Emergency funding was provided by our Hospice Foundation.  The rainy day had arrived again.  Our other events such as "Tee Off for Hospice" were wonderful.  Grant applications were mainly successful.  We received some additional funding from TDHB and through the efforts of Hospice NZ.  Retail sales improved.  Volunteers were happy to see more customers.  Things are looking up.

But there has been other work to do.  The Strategic Plan was revised and will be our guiding document until 2025.  Our stance on the End of Life Choice Act was formed with staff input and will be reviewed regularly.  A review of all Te Kahu Pairuri Hospice Taranaki policy documents was completed.  The change from TDHB funding to Health New Zealand is also causing some uncertainty but we are making sure that our concerns are heard by those making decisions.

Mauri Mate is a new aspect of our service delivery and we are fortunate to have Paula King guiding us.  This initiative has resulted in our change of logo which reflects our commitment to the project.

After many years of trying we have secured ownership of the house next door at 3 David Street.  I appreciate the effort which Paul Lamb has dedicated to its acquisition.  It is the key to future development of our services as we divert to more working in the community rather than increasing patient capacity in our Hospice.  Paul has also been busy arranging for solar panels to be installed on the roof, something which will eventually save us a considerable sum when we read of substantial power price increases.

But there is one last thing to mention.  Te Kahu Pairuri Hospice Taranaki won the "Not for Profit" category at the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.  Wonderful.  What a testimony to those who work and volunteer to make a difference in our province.  Congratulations to all who made it possible.  

My sincere thanks to our staff, volunteers, Board members and all who contribute in any way.  And a special mention of Sandy Smith who is our minute secretary.  Her full and accurate recording of our Board meetings is appreciated.  It's a pleasure to be part of such a vibrant organisation. 

Mike Brooke (QSM), Chair, Te Kahu Pairuri Hospice Taranaki Inc.