Access is proud to be the exclusive partner of the New Zealand Spinal Trust’s Whānau Peer Support programme.

NZST empowers people with spinal cord impairments and their whānau to build strong futures through support, information, and connection. Their Peer and Whānau Support team offers lived-experience guidance to those navigating life after a spinal injury.

At Access, we’re committed to this kaupapa. Our support workers and nurses assist tāngata with spinal injuries across Aotearoa, and we match donations to NZST’s annual appeal dollar for dollar, up to $25,000

Spinal Support NZ is a valued Access partner, providing peer support to people with spinal injury or impairment — both in hospital and in the community. Our sponsorship helps them continue this important mahi, offering connection, encouragement, and lived experience to those navigating life after injury.

We also help sponsor Spinal Gatherings across the motu — regional events that bring people together to share information, build relationships, and strengthen community.

Pictured: Round the Bays event, where Spinal Support NZ members came together to participate and connect. We’re proud to support initiatives that bring people together and make a real difference.

Debbie has been leading our Christchurch and Canterbury Region team for nine years. Previously the ACC Clinical Services Manager, Debbie worked closely with Burwood Spinal Unit to transition tāngata | people we care for back home from the unit and providing support with training local teams. This continues to be part of her role with Access, along with team management and oversight of every aspect of the region’s operations.

Toni, our Serious Injury Nurse has many years experience as a Senior Registered Nurse at the Burwood Spinal Unit, and is part of our core team supporting transitions home, working with you and whānau to develop a personalised support plan. Toni co-ordinates and collaborates with support workers, physiotherapists and occupational therapists making sure everyone understands the care you required and what we do to ensure you feel safe and supported.

She says “Whether it’s liaising with rehab teams, medical professionals, or ACC managers, I am here for you and your whanau every step of the way”. 

Namita Khadka, our Complex Care Navigator  coordinates care for clients with complex needs, overseeing the scheduling of support workers assigned to your care. Nadia meets with you, and your whānau, to understand your needs, and ensure that support workers providing your care feel confident in their roles.

Lynn James, our ACC Clinical Services Manager, holds a varied role and is a key early contact for all our clients,  from the Burwood Spinal Unit onwards.  Having worked at Burwood for 18 years as a Clinical Nurse Specialist, Lynn has a good understanding of the challenges you have worked through. Based in Christchurch, Lynn works around the country for Access facilitating spinal cord injury training, supporting transitions home, including travelling with clients when needed, and ensuring a thorough handover to a well-trained and confident local team. Lynn remains available to clients throughout their time with Access.