Plunket centres around the South Island have noticed an increase in demand for services as displaced parents and children flee Christchurch.

Timaru’s Mayor has said that between 6,000 and 7,000 Christchurch people were now in the district – almost 20 per cent of the population. Agencies in Nelson, Marlborough, Otago and Southland have also reported population increases, resulting in an increased demand for a number of services. 

While normal Plunket services remain suspended in Christchurch, Plunket is working with a number of other organisations to provide as many services as possible. Wider services are expected to be available in Christchurch next week. 

Plunket is operating a walk in centre for any parents wanting to see a Plunket Nurse, out of the Plunket Family Centre, 5 Twigger Street, Addington, Christchurch.

Plunket is calling all Christchurch families that have enrolled infants and young children, starting with the youngest (four weeks old), to establish if families are still in town.

Plunket clients who have left Christchurch are encouraged to contact the local Plunket office or clinic in their new location, or to phone PlunketLine (0800 933 922) to re-establish contact with Plunket.

Calls to PlunketLine have increased significantly since the earthquake, so callers are asked to be patient when using this service – your call will be answered.

Plunket centres throughout the country are offering parenting information and support to families and whānau with babies and toddlers displaced after the Christchurch earthquake. Some of the centres also have small numbers of car seats, and other baby equipment available.

ENDS

For more information contact:

Nikki Hooper, External Communications Executive
04 470 4951; 021 405 842
Nikki.hooper@plunket.org.nz

Tags: Christchurch Timaru Earthquake PlunketLine family 0 Comments 3 March 2011