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Maddie Barrett Social Media Coordinator | Kaituitui Pae Pāpori About me Along with being the social media coordinator, I am also involved in delivering programmes aimed to help tamariki and rangitahi increase their resilience and connect with their identity. I recently completed my degree in Psychology at Otago, and are currently working on a Masters by thesis in Psychology at Victoria University. In my spare time I like to stay busy by volunteering, visiting op-shops, and enjoying time with friends and whanau. I work at Skylight because I am passionate about helping young people in evidence-based, positively-affirming ways. My aim is to register as a Psychologist and continue to help tamariki and rangitahi in Aotearoa. Next Previous

Jahnya shares her story This webisode features Jahnya sharing her story of how she has survived suicide or lost a friend or whānau member to suicide – it is for rangatahi by rangatahi. The personal experiences shared in the following video may be disturbing for some viewers as she talks about suicide. You might also be interested in: Journeys Through Methamphetamine Addiction Matty - Resilience Web Series Mana - Resilience Web Series Jahnya shares her story Brittany shares their story McKay - Resilience Web Series Rose - Resilience Web Series Melissa - Resilience Web Series Bella - Resilience Web Series

Good Mood and Food This session will guide students from years 7, 8 and 9 (11-13 years old), through an informative session on the mind and body connection in relation to our food choices, how we process our thoughts and the importance of movement. You might also be interested in: The Power of Journaling Is a Worry Worrying You?

Parenting through Grief This resource was developed for parents who are supporting their child living with cancer, or who have lost a child to cancer. You might also be interested in: Practical Strategies for Self-Care and Resilience Grief 101 for Parents

Guide for young people If you’re going through a hard time, feeling stuck, or just need someone to talk to — you’re in the right place. Skylight offers support that’s real, respectful, and designed to help you feel stronger and more connected. Life can be hard sometimes. You might be dealing with stuff like grief, anxiety, family changes, school pressure, or just feeling overwhelmed — and maybe you don’t know who to talk to, or how to even begin. You are not alone, and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. Skylight is here to support you through whatever you’re going through. We work with young people all across Aotearoa, offering free and low-cost counselling, group programmes, and tools to help you understand your feelings and build your own resilience. One of our most popular programmes is called Travellers — a small group that runs in some high schools to help students talk about challenges, learn new skills, and realise they’re not the only ones feeling this way. We also have loads of helpful resources — from worksheets and journals to videos and apps — that can support you to feel more in control, connected, and hopeful. Whether you are struggling right now or just curious about what support might look like, we are here for you. You can talk to someone, read more about our programmes, or just explore in your own time. This is your space. And however you are feeling, it’s okay to start here. You might also be interested in: Guide for schools Guide for parents and carers Other organisations that can help Request a support pack

Our unique offering is a full spectrum of care for those tamariki and rangatahi aged 5 - 24 years with mild to moderate mental health concerns. About Skylight Skylight is a New Zealand charity that supports children, young people, and whānau through tough times by providing counselling, resources, and programmes. Our locations Explore the map to see all the schools and communities where our programmes are running. Click on the top-left icon to filter by programme. Our story Our people Our impact Work with us More info Contact us Our story Skylight started in 1996 to support children and young people through grief, loss, and trauma. After a local bereavement service closed, a group of professionals created a trust to fill the gap—starting small in Newtown with donated space and community backing. We quickly grew into a national organisation, offering counselling, resources, and training. Programmes like Travellers brought support into schools, and we responded to major events like the Christchurch earthquakes with practical tools and immediate care. Today, we continue helping tamariki and rangatahi aged 5 - 24 years navigate tough times, with a focus on community partnerships, cultural respect, and making support accessible to anyone who needs it. Read our full story Kaimahi Kaimahi Kathryn Ross CEO Vonnie Marshall Counselling Team Leader | Kaitaki Kapa Whakamāherehere Te Ataahia Hurihanganui Pou Ārahi | Cultural Advisor Jenny Devine Clinical Advisor | Kaiwhirinaki Haumanu Meet the Skylight team What we stand for Ngā whainga – Vision In Aotearoa tamariki and rangatahi are empowered to thrive. Tā mātou whakatakanga – Mission Guiding tamariki and rangatahi hauora through responsive, informed and effective practice. Ngā uara – Values Ko tā te tamaiti - Child Centric Ngākau pono - Integrity Whakamanamanahia - Empowered / Uplifting Relationships Tāngata Rite - Equity Learn more about our strategic plan here. Our services Counselling & support We offer confidential, professional counselling for tamariki, rangatahi, whānau and adults facing grief, trauma, family breakdown, domestic violence, illness, behavioural challenges and more. With locations across the Wellington region and nationwide online/phone sessions, our family-centred approach supports individuals and entire families in finding strength together. Group programmes Skylight runs tailored group programmes to help people connect and heal. We hold regular support groups like Heart Song for bereaved parents and varied groups for children facing different forms of loss. School-based resilience Our Travellers programme equips Year 9 students to cope with change, transitions and loss through an eight-week, in-school journey led by trained staff. We also offer short courses such as Matika and Tai‑oranga, plus Awhi Mai Awhi Atu wellbeing counselling directly in schools, promoting mental health and resilience where students spend their day Resources & training Skylight provides an online resource library and support pack service with materials on grief, trauma, and resilience that we post across Aotearoa. Our workshops and professional development training empower educators, organisations, and communities to confidently support others through crises, grief, and life challenges. How we are funded Our funding comes from fundraising events, grants and donations, sponsorships, and Government contracts for some service provision. Thank you to all the individuals, organisations and grant agencies that have supported us and helped us become what we are today. Skylight is a national, not-for-profit trust. Skylight is registered with Charities Services as Skylight Trust, CC27206. We are governed by a Board of Trustees, from a wide variety of backgrounds, who share the vision of seeing people of any age supported and empowered to move forward in their lives. Annual reports View our annual reports for more information 2024 - 2025 2023 - 2024 2022 - 2023 2021 - 2022 2020 - 2021 2019 - 2020 2018 - 2019 2017 - 2018 2016 - 2017 2015 - 2016 2014 - 2015 2013 - 2014 2012 - 2013 2011 - 2012 2010 - 2011 You might also be interested in... Professional development opportunities Read more Our impact Read more Our story Read more Other organisations that can help Read more Te Kunenga Māori Strategy and Action Plan 2025 Read more Advocacy Read more Skylight's child protection policy Read more Our supporters Read more Our partners Read more Privacy policy Read more Contact us Read more Work with us Read more Organise your own fundraising event Read more Fundraising ideas Read more Get involved Read more

Azrul Bibi Administrator -Kaiwhakataka About me Originally from the Fiji Islands I arrived in New Zealand in 2023. I completed a Diploma in Accounting at the University of The South Pacific. My role at Skylight is as an Administrator entering confidential data for Counselling and Programmes and completing general administration duties. I enjoy working at Skylight because every day I learn something new and creative, and I work with beautiful people. Outside of work I enjoy watching cartoons with my daughter, watch rugby and love cooking for my children. Next Previous

Grief 101 for Parents A basic understanding of grief and how to cope when you are grieving. You might also be interested in: Practical Strategies for Self-Care and Resilience Parenting through Grief

Privacy policy Privacy Policy Introduction Skylight Trust complies with the New Zealand Privacy Act 2020 (the Act) when dealing with personal information. Personal information is information about an identifiable individual (a natural person). Skylight appoints the Director of Operations as the Privacy Officer. This policy sets out how we will collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal information. This policy does not limit or exclude any of your rights under the Act. If you wish to seek further information on the Act, see www.privacy.org.nz . Changes to this Policy We may change this policy by uploading a revised version onto the Skylight website. Any changes will apply from the date we upload the revised policy. What Personal Information We Collect We may collect the following personal information: Name Email and phone number Address Ethnicity Birthdate Professional unique identifiers Interactions with us How We Use Your Personal Information We use personal information to: Confirm your identity Provide the services or information you've requested Pay accounts or generate invoices Investigate and resolve complaints Comply with legislative and regulatory obligations Perform administrative functions (e.g. accounting, record keeping) Ensure data stored or transferred outside NZ meets compliance standards Review PCI compliance annually for payment handling Why This Information Is Collected To provide and manage the services you've requested For charging, invoicing, and debt collection To improve service quality and infrastructure To conduct surveys and understand your needs Disclosing Your Personal Information We may disclose your personal information: For the purpose it was collected (or directly related purposes) Where you have authorised disclosure As required or permitted by law Protecting Your Personal Information We take reasonable steps to protect your information from loss, unauthorised access, or misuse. Skylight staff receive training on privacy and confidentiality. Accessing and Correcting Your Information You have the right to access and request corrections to your personal information. We may require proof of identity before processing such requests. To exercise these rights, email [email protected] . Reasonable costs may apply for copies or corrections. Internet Use We take reasonable steps to secure personal information transmitted online. Skylight provides cyber security training and alerts to staff. Note: External websites linked from our site have their own privacy policies. We recommend reviewing them before submitting information. Retention and Deletion of Information We retain your information only as long as necessary. However, we may need to retain some information (e.g., for legal reasons) for up to 7 years. Some information may not be deleted even upon request, where required by law. Privacy Breaches If we believe a privacy breach has occurred, we will: Identify and contain the issue Minimise harm Notify the Privacy Commissioner (if serious harm is likely) Contact affected individuals where appropriate If you suspect a privacy breach, contact us as soon as possible. Contacting Us For questions about this policy or to request access or correction to your data: Email: [email protected] Not Satisfied with Our Process? You can escalate a privacy complaint to: Office of the New Zealand Privacy Commissioner privacy.org.nz Email: [email protected] Phone: 0800 803 909 (or +64 4 474 7590 from overseas) You might also be interested in: Te Kunenga Māori Strategy and Action Plan 2025 Skylight's child protection policy Contact us

Sound Bridge Sound Bridge is a music therapy group for young people aged 12–18 who want to play, jam, and create music together. Sound Bridge: Music Therapy Group for Young Musicians What is Sound Bridge? Sound Bridge is a music therapist-supported group designed for young people aged 12–18 who want to play, jam, and create music alongside peers. It’s a safe, supportive space to explore music, connection, and identity. Why join? Active music-making : Collaborate through playing, improvisation, and songwriting. Peer support : Connect with others in a validating group environment. Identity development : Use music to explore self-expression, build confidence, and find your voice. Emotional wellbeing : Evidence shows that music therapy can boost mood, reduce stress, and support mental health long-term. Who is it for? Young people aged 12–18 who already identify as musicians (e.g., instrumentalists, singers, producers). Those who may benefit from social connection, emotional support, and creative self-expression. When and where? Sessions run on Tuesdays during the school term, from 10 February 2026, 4:30–6:00pm. The group takes place in the Skylight office in Wellington and runs for 8-10 weeks. Why refer a young person? Group music therapy is a low-risk, evidence-based way to support youth mental health while strengthening their musical identity. Participants gain confidence, emotional regulation skills, and supportive peer relationships — all while doing what they love: making music. How to register interest If you know a young person who would benefit, or would like more information please email: [email protected] Include: Participant's name Age Contact phone number You might also be interested in: Matika Parenting Through Separation Waves

Work with us Explore our personal development and job opportunities Professional development opportunities Explore Skylight’s professional development opportunities – tailored training, webinars, and presentations to support those working with children, young people, and families. Learn more . Job opportunities At Skylight, we’re always interested in hearing from people who are passionate about supporting others through life’s challenges. If you believe your skills and values align with our work, we’d love to hear from you – even if we don’t have a specific role advertised. We’re especially interested in connecting with qualified counsellors who would like to join our network and work alongside us to provide compassionate, evidence-based support to individuals, whānau, and communities. If you’d like to explore opportunities with us, please get in touch with [email protected] You might also be interested in: Professional development opportunities Our supporters Contact us Get involved

Advocacy Skylight's submission on: The Suicide Prevention Action Plan (pdf download) We agree that suicide is “not solely a health issue”. We therefore welcome the Draft Plan’s Cross-Government approach to suicide prevention and postvention but think it can go further. The responsibility must sit with all-of-government in collaboration with all sectors, public and private, including communities and non-governmental organisations such as ourselves. The Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi (pdf download) Skylight Trust firmly opposes the Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill and regards the Bill as unnecessary, in breach of numerous human rights, children’s rights and Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations. Safety measures for the use of puberty blockers in young people with gender-related health needs (pdf download) Skylight does not support more restrictive regulation for access to puberty blockers for non cisgender individuals, as this is discriminatory. Access should be guided by medical practitioners, informed consent and guidelines as it is now. Consultation on Childhood Palliative Care Models (pdf download) It is time to act. We support moving to the four-hub model to produce equal outcomes across the country cost effectively and most importantly, to enable tamariki, rangatahi and their whānau to live (and die) with dignity and with professional support, as close to home as is possible. Skylight wants to support the mental and physical health of the many tamariki and rangatahi (and their whānau) accessing palliative care. If the four-hub model is not pursued, we favour the two hub model over the status quo Feedback on Oranga Tamariki's Long-Term Insights Briefing (pdf download) Skylight's response emphasises the critical need for a holistic, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive approach to child protection. Success by 2040 hinges on prevention, early intervention, robust support systems, and strong community collaboration. Key changes required include increased funding, better integration of services, and addressing systemic issues such as healthcare access and housing instability. Leveraging existing initiatives and enhancing digital support can further strengthen these efforts. Ultimately, achieving a high economic welfare and social cohesion scenario will require sustained commitment and a unified approach across all sectors. While there are many opportunities and challenges presented by the future, there is much that can be done now. You might also be interested in: Professional development opportunities Our story Te Kunenga Māori Strategy and Action Plan 2025 Our supporters Our partners