Plunket needs help

Ruapehu Bulletin, 6 August 1991, Page 15

Plunket needs help

A committee is essential for a Plunket nurse to operate effectively, and new members are desperately needed for Waiouru, says Waiouru Plunket secretary, Trish Wichman. Henry Wichman is currently the president and is to stand down after four years on the committee. Waiouru Plunket is a sub branch of Taihape and the committee is 11 volunteers who support the Plunket and Karitane nurse. The committee has the responsibility for fund raising $6000 a year to cover all expenses. Some expenses include paying for administration costs the telephone account, mileage for home visit-

ing, and ensuring a well maintained and well equipped clinic. Some services that the committee provide are; car seat rental; portacot hireage; small gifts to all new babies; free family visits to the Plunket nurse. "The funds raised by the committee pay for everything I may needwhether it be a safety pin, disposable nappy, or new scales," said* Plunket Nurse, Jean McLean. Jean works in Waiouru on Monday, Tuesday\ and every second Wednesday she alternates with Raetihi Plunket nurse, Carol Harford. Thursdays and Fridays, Jean covers the rural areas. Jean's aim is

for the mother to have a happy contented baby, and to ensure the child is developing normally. Regular checks are done at 3, 6, 9, 12, 18 and 24 months. "Every family has different needs which may require extra help and support. I~ will arrange visits as necessary to suit each individual," explained Jean. Plunket has changed slightly in the way parents receive the service. Not all parents need or want the Plunket nurse as frequently as they used to, and some need Plunket more often. So the service is now more flexible. Jean is an experienced Turnpage 17

Plunket needs

Frompage 15 midwife and has worked in baby clinics for 28 years in South Africa. She has lived in New Zealand for two years. "Waiouru's biggest problem is lack of family support. Fortunately there are plenty of services available for the young family, including Plunket, playcentre, mother and baby group and there is an active community midwife," ■ Jean commented. "In order for this essential service to continue, a committee is needed. Male or female, parent or not, it doesn't matter. Any contribution anyone wishes to offer will be gratefully accepted. Plunket's annual general meeting is to be held next week.