Helping break down baRRIERS

FOR years Courtney Stubbins has worked in the disability sector because she has a passion for challenging barriers that block people from being their best.

And that's a passion she brings to CAYAD (Community Action on Youth and Drugs), Tūranga Health.

“If we want to minimise harm we need to take an honest look at the environments young people are in, from home, school and the community to the broader structures of society,” she says.

Courtney’s grateful for the chance to learn from the grassroots actions and initiatives taking place in Tairāwhiti. Since moving here in 2017 Courtney has immersed herself in the community, connecting with schools and youth organisations. “Working with CAYAD’s a new area for me, there’s heaps to learn. Because I’m new here there’s a lot to take in about the people, land, culture and history.”

The CAYAD team supports community-led programmes or projects that address alcohol or drug harm, or promote youth wellbeing in general. Schools, marae and sporting groups are the types of organisations that might access its resources and expertise. 

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