Welcome mat out at revamped MSD Gisborne centre

HELPING HAND: Ministry of Social Development case worker Te Ariki Dewes (front left), MSD East Coast regional director Naomi Whitewood (back left) with MSD Gisborne service centre manager Lynne Campbell and East Coast regional commissioner Annie Aranui at MSD’s revamped Lowe Street service centre. Pictures by Liam Clayton

A revamp of the Ministry of Social Development’s Gisborne service centre has created a safer and brighter environment for clients.

The $730,000 work involved an upgrade to security systems (CCTV and access management), physical security features and furniture, as well as the construction and IT costs associated with the reconfiguration.

New privacy screens were also introduced, along with increased security measures following an incident at the Ashburton service centre in 2014 when a gunman shot and killed two ministry employees.

Ministry of Social Development regional commissioner Annie Aranui said the refurbishment was aimed at making the office more welcoming.

“We’ve had really good feedback from our clients and stakeholders.”

A new, green colour scheme was specifically chosen because of its therapeutic properties.

Dedicated children’s spaces were also introduced

The project followed a successful pilot scheme in Flaxmere last year.

“We are always looking for ways to improve how we work. We understand our clients and staff need to feel safe and feel connected to the community.”

At an event to mark the completed refurbishment, MSD East Coast regional director Naomi Whitewood said the ministry was also responding to the issue of homelessness, with more workers on the ground to support homeless families with children.

“The Government is investing $31 million over the next four years for 67 intensive case managers and navigators.”