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CONNECT Connection When Covid-19 arrived in Aotearoa in 2020 we were forced to put our popular face-to-face coffee groups on hold. In 2021, with yet more lockdowns, we once again had to delay reinstating coffee groups, much to the disappointment of our members. Instead, in 2022 we established Connecting Over Coffee - virtual coffee groups where members, their caregivers, and whānau can join us for a coffee, a chat and hear from a guest speaker once a month. Connecting Over Coffee is a chance to learn, and possibly try, something new. We’ve held yoga, music therapy and Functional Adaptive Movement sessions and we’ve heard from other organisations in the disability sector such as Manawanui. Our colleagues and members came up with imaginative ways to keep everyone’s spirits Collaboration with the Halberg Foundation In 2021/22, the Society began collaborating with the Halberg Foundation on its Pathways to Activity initiative. The aim is to ensure no child with Cerebral Palsy is left behind when it comes to equitable participation in sports and recreation. People with disabilities still face more barriers to participation than non-disabled peers. Together, both organisations are working towards the provision of quality and inclusive sports programmes to improve well- being, confidence and a sense of belonging for our tamariki and rangatahi with Cerebral Palsy. “We love attending the Connecting Over Coffee sessions. The Zoom sessions are informative and in each lessonwe learn about the different services that are out there, that I didn’t know existed. We get a taste of things like music therapy and Functional Adaptive Movement whichwere great. My son enjoys the sessions as he can participate without leaving the comfort of home as he can get a bit unsettled around people due to his sensory issues.” “Our son is a very social young man and enjoys face to face Coffee Groups. He loves to see familiar faces with meet and greet sessions and listen to his fellow member’s stories.” up and pass the lockdown hours. Their creativity was highlighted through social media competitions and activities such as chalk art, baking days and sharing photos of pets. Post-lockdown we were able to re-instate our in-person coffee groups. They are supportive spaces where people can socialise, get advice and information, and talk to those with similar experiences. Coffee groups are held at local cafes in a handful of locations around the country and are hosted by members or staff. 14 | ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT 2021-2022