Kia ora

It is always a privilege and a pleasure to work with students, and their whanau/families, in the counselling setting. Whilst we are only able to provide sessions during term time, we are always encouraging students to apply what we talk about, outside of school/Kura time as well.

Whether your child is engaged in counselling or not, if you or someone you care about needs support and assistance over the summer holidays, the contact details below might be useful. I do hope that the Christmas period provides you with the chance to connect with family and friends, unwind and recharge, and do the things that make your heart sing.

You, or your child, can reach out and speak to trained mental health professionals via the following wellbeing and support services. These are just some of the many online services that support mental health.

- Youthline – 0800 376 633 or free text 234, plus there is a web chat option

- What's Up – 0800 942 8787 (Phone counselling for 5–18-year-olds).

- Lifeline – 0800 543 354

- Need to talk? - free call or text 1737 support from a trained counsellor

- The Lowdown – 0800 111 757, email team@thelowdown.co.nz, free text 5626, plus there is a web chat option

If it is an emergency or you, or someone you know is at immediate risk, call 111.

If you wish to discuss the services the School Counsellor can provide, email Jude at murrayj@hillmorton.school.nz or check out the school website which has all the counselling and support services details.

Mere Kirihimete, we wish you all the best for the festive season as we remember those past, absent friends and family, those in our prisons and hospitals, and those for whom this season can be particularly difficult.

Jude Murray

Guidance Counsellor

24/7 Youth Workers