Social Justice Advocacy
Social Justice is all about breaking down barriers that prevent people from being heard and from accessing what they need.
Our advocates will support you to do this, as well as working with you to help develop your skills for self-advocating in future.
Social Justice Advocacy
Anglican Care South Canterbury’s (ACSC) Social Justice work began in mid-2014 when Ruth Swale was employed to write an initial report on ‘Significant Social Justice Issues in South Canterbury.’ In 2024 Anglican Advocacy South Canterbury continues to build on this work with Christchurch City Mission.
There were three main issues identified
The findings that emerged from this report have led directly to the social justice initiatives described in ‘Teams in Action’.
Issue One
Barriers facing people who are attempting to access the services they need.
Issue Two
Churches needing ongoing encouragement and direction to help them engage with the biblical mandate to promote social justice.
Issue Three
Sub-standard housing, and the need for social change to achieve warm, dry and safe housing.
The Advocacy Group
The Advocacy Group is two-fold
One-to-one Support
Offering the support of a one-to-one advocate for appointments which you are too stressed to handle on your own, and assisting you when you are facing barriers to accessing the services you need.
Empowering Workshops
Encouraging people through learning new skills, and giving you the opportunity to share with others who are going through similar issues. Ultimately you will be able to self-advocate, and help other people too.
The Advocacy Group
Ruth Swale coordinated this group until 2024. She collaborated with Bettina Mielenz from 2015-2017, during which time Bettina presented our public workshops in the smaller SC towns. Alexia Bensemann is continuing to present our public workshops in Timaru. An equally vital part of The Advocacy Group service is our team of volunteer advocates who are available to offer 1-to-1 support. From small beginnings in Timaru in July 2015, we have now extended The Advocacy Group’s services to include Waimate and Temuka as well, and potentially elsewhere in future.
Now in 2026, Jan Andrews continues this coordinating role supporting Advocates throughout South Canterbury. Focusing strongly on empowering and supporting people to work towards resolving their needs.
