Local Liz Awarded Dignity Champion Award
In March 2025, one of our local volunteers, Liz McBride, was presented with a Dignity Champion Award from the national team at Age Concern New Zealand. A Dignity Champion is someone who pledges to fight ageism and support the dignity, rights, and respect of all older people in New Zealand.
Liz has earned this special recognition thanks to her dedication and commitment as a Carer Relief volunteer, supporting older people in the Nelson-Tasman region.
In her role, Liz visits people’s homes to care for a loved one, allowing the full-time carer to take a much-needed break. With over thirty years’ experience as a caregiver in the community and at rest homes, Liz is no stranger to this role. She works with several families and is a compassionate carer with great people skills.
We asked Liz about her experience as a Carer Relief volunteer, and she explained that it’s a natural fit for her, given her background and experience. The hours and the timing suit her well, it’s a great way to utilise her skills, and best of all she enjoys it!
From all of us here at Age Concern Nelson Tasman, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to Liz. She’s truly a champion in our eyes.
Liz McBride, Carer Relief Volunteer
“It’s nice to give people a break because it’s such hard work being a full-time carer in the home. As a volunteer you’ve got to be led by the person, it’s not about me, it’s about them. I just enjoy it. I really enjoy it.”
What is Carer Relief?
While many people are familiar with our Visiting Service for older adults, not everyone knows about the Carer Relief model.
This service provides respite care for older adults who are full-time carers for another older person. Volunteers like Liz visit the client’s home to offer companionship and peace of mind—note that they do not provide personal care or manage medication.
It’s a vital service that gives full-time carers the opportunity to take some time for themselves, knowing their loved one is safe and well cared for.
A Call for Volunteers
We’re always looking for more Carer Relief volunteers to support older carers in the Nelson-Tasman region. If you have the time, flexibility, and an interest in this special volunteer role, we’d love to hear from you!
All our volunteers are vetted, trained, and supported by experienced coordinators. We carefully match volunteers to families to ensure a successful and stable experience for everyone involved.
For more information, please contact Susan Arrowsmith at 544 7624 (ext. 3) or email coordinator@ageconcernnt.org.nz or Register to be a Volunteer Form — Age Concern Nelson Tasman