Who We Are
Presbyterian Support Otago (PSO) was the first social services organisation established by the Presbyterian Church in New Zealand.
Although now autonomous and a equal opportunity employer, PSO retains links with the Presbyterian Church and is proud of its traditional Presbyterian support base and steady values of thrift and stewardship.
- Established 1906
- One of seven autonomous regions in New Zealand
- Incorporated Society under the Charitable Trusts Act 1957
- A major provider of health & social services in Otago
- Relies upon the generosity of donors to help provide Family Works services
- Contracts to health authorities to provide a variety of services for older people
- 1200 employees
- 600 volunteers
Mission
The mission of Presbyterian Support Otago, guided by its Christian values, is to enrich people’s lives by meeting needs of changing individual and community situations to make a positive difference.
Vision
Presbyterian Support Otago works for a fair, just and caring community for the people of Otago.
Values
In fulfilling this vision, we will endeavour to act with faith, compassion, respect, integrity, courage and independence.
History
In earlier years, Presbyterian Support Otago provided residential care for disadvantaged children, progressing into residential care for older people with the opening of Ross Home in 1918
The late 1960s saw the organisation broaden its role still further, with the establishment of the Cameron Centre, providing a range of counselling and welfare services.
Presbyterian Support Otago continues to respond to changing community needs. Today, it is the largest provider of health and social services in the Otago region, operating seven aged care residential facilities and an extensive range of community services for older people, children and families.
The organisation offers services to all in the community, regardless of culture, religious beliefs or background. While we work in close co-operation with Presbyterian parishes throughout Otago, nevertheless, Presbyterian Support is independent of the Presbyterian Church and is responsible both for raising our own funds for services and determining our service goals.
Presbyterian Support Centre
Located adjacent to Dunedin's historic First Church of Otago, the Presbyterian Support Centre in Moray Place is the administrative heart of Presbyterian Support Otago.
Levels 3 and 4 of the centre provide administration support for Corporate Services, Human Resources, Communications & Fundraising, and Services for Older people.
Levels 1 and 2 are Family Works' services including the Cameron Centre.
Management Team
|
Chief Executive: |
Gillian Bremner |
|
Finance Director: |
Andrew Borthwick |
|
Director Services for Older People |
Maurice Burrowes |
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Family Works Director: |
Paul Hooper |
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Communications & Fundraising Director: |
Lisa Wells |
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Human Resources Director: |
Jan Samuel |
Presbyterian Support Otago Board
Presbyterian Support Otago Board is governed by an elected Board. The Board consists of no more than 13 members; one Presbytery appointment from the Dunedin, Central Otago and North Otago; representatives from the Tapanui and Heriot Parishes; seven other members appointed by the Board; the Chief Executive being appointed by the Board.
The Board's current membership includes:
| Mr Frazer Barton | Chairperson |
| Mr Harold Hancox | |
|
Rev Catherine Little |
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| Mr Ray Macleod | |
| Mrs Gaye Edwards | |
| Mr David Richardson | |
| Mrs Helen Scott | |
| Mr Tim Mepham | |
|
Ms Margy-Jean Malcolm |
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| Mrs Bev Rodwell | |
| Mr Les Green (Advisor Corporate and Finance) |
Staff and Volunteers
With over 1250 skilled, caring and professional full and part-time staff, Presbyterian Support is one of the largest employers in the Otago region.
Approximately 600 dedicated volunteers are involved in every facet of our work. This ensures that together, we make a vital and effective difference in the lives of hundreds of individuals and families throughout Otago.
Please see the To Contact Us page for contact details.