“Rights and Belonging” How practical understanding of rights can combat loneliness Matt and Brian will explore, using practical examples, how knowledge of rights and how to use them can reduce and combat loneliness. Whether it’s knowledge that you have the human right to connect together, how you can use education to learn about friendship, or […]
Connecting with Volition We all want connection. An important part of this is communicating to others the things that matter to you. This session will show how the Volition app can help you share what is important to you with other people. We will also look at the Whaimana website about Supported Decision Making and […]
An introduction to the online independent living and money game Stand Tall Stand Tall was designed by the IHC Library for all young people in New Zealand including those with intellectual disabilities, neurodiversity and autism. Stand Tall is a free online money game available to play on the web – www.ihc-standtall.com or download from the […]
Stand Tall was designed by the IHC Library for all young people in New Zealand including those with intellectual disabilities, neurodiversity and autism. Stand Tall is a free online money game available to play on the web – www.ihc-standtall.com or download from the Google Play or Apple App stores. Players create an avatar, learn about […]
Friendship Matters: Building Real Connections Learn more about the IHC Friendship Programme, how it supports people to build genuine friendships and connections, and how you can join the programme. Presenters Hannah Verry Online Volunteer Coordinator (National) IHC Hamish Gilbert Self-Advocate Ambassador for the Online Friendship Programme IHC Biographies Hannah Verry is IHC’s Online Volunteer Coordinator, […]
How I keep from being lonely I'm talking about all of the activities I do to stay in touch with friends and feel like I'm part of the community. Presenter Amelia Eades Self-advocate Biography I'm 29 and flatting with a friend in Auckland. I have two part time jobs, I'm in Special Olympics Swimming, I […]
Friendship Matters: Planning Opportunities for Connection, Capability and Wellbeing Friendship is a key part of wellbeing, belonging and a good life, yet opportunities for friendship and social connection do not always happen naturally for people with Down syndrome. Drawing on my PhD Theory of Wellbeing, in which friendship is a key domain, and my subsequent […]
Helping Children with Down Syndrome Sleep Better: Poor Sleep Isn’t “Just Part of It” Sleep problems are often normalised in children with Down syndrome. Families may not seek help, thinking this is “part” of having a child with Down syndrome or may be dismissed when presenting to health professionals. However, sleep is one of the […]
Capacity, Communication and Co-regulation This interactive session explores behaviour as communication, drawing on the principle that children do well when they can (Dr Ross Greene). Grounded in the conference theme of Together Against Loneliness, we will discuss how reduced confidence in responding to expressions of distress can lead to families becoming more isolated and withdrawing […]
Manage My Health – Down Syndrome Style Empowering Families/Whānau Every Step of the Way. An interactive online session for parents, family members, and advocates. This session will provide you with information about where to find health advice and support services for children and young people with Down Syndrome. Presenters: • Anna Tiatia Fa’atoese Latu Program […]
From Data to Dignity 2026: new insights and evidence This presentation will explore what the latest data tells us about the lives and experiences of people with intellectual disability in Aotearoa New Zealand. It will provide an update on From Data to Dignity, highlighting key changes and ongoing inequalities, before turning to Untapped Potential, IHC’s […]
Community connection: Shifting the inclusion focus This workshop is designed for neighbours, peers, community leaders and local groups who want some simple, actionable ways to be inclusive community members for the people who have Down Syndrome in their community. Polly Newton will share practical strategies for community-minded people to build meaningful, two-way connections and communication […]