About us

Vulnerable adults in New Zealand are not protected against abuse. Vulnerable Adults Voice is a national advocacy initiative focused on safeguarding elders and other vulnerable adults in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Our team has either experienced the impact of vulnerable adults abuse on whānau either professionally or personally or both. We are committed to change to safeguard vulnerable adults from abuse. At present all our team members are doing this mahi pro bono.

Tupu whakarito 

Our name derives from a whakataukī - tūngia te ururua kia tupu whakaritorito te tupu o te harakeke. It's about removing undergrowth so that the new flax shoots can emerge. Metaphorically it's about clearing paths and allowing new energies into one's space. The rito is also the most vulnerable part of the plant and is protected on either side by the parents. When you remove it you effectively harm the next generation of growth. But if you tend to it properly you allow it to flourish, to grow healthy and strong. Positive reinforcement, though delicate at the same time.

Advisory Committee

We have convened an Advisory Committee of experienced leaders and subject-matter experts who provide strategic guidance and informed perspective to strengthen our mission and expand our impact. Representing diverse professional backgrounds and lived experiences, the committee offers thought partnership and insight that help shape our long-term vision and ensure our work remains responsive to the communities we serve.

Board Members

Ailsa Claire, OBE

Ailsa returned to Aotearoa New Zealand after a career in health and social care in the United Kingdom, where she served as Chief Executive of several organisations and as a National Director. She went on to take up the role of Chief Executive of Auckland District Health Board and later served in senior roles in Te Whatu Ora.

Now retired, Ailsa serves on several charity boards and continues her passion for supporting people to achieve the outcomes they want for themselves, their whānau, and their communities.

Sonia McFetridge

Sonia McFetridge is a Consultant with over 30 years working across government.  Her whanau have supported her mum who has been the victim of elder abuse.  The family have struggled to navigate the maze of agencies frequently experiencing the gaps in their responsibilities.  Her siblings have managed this whilst being on the emotional journey of seeing their mum slowly recover from the abuse she suffered, and then subsequently pass away.  The perpetrator has not been held to account.

Sarah Hartley-House

A Learning and Development Senior Manager who has experienced what it takes to care for vulnerable adults.  Sarah is leading on the Operations of the Charity.

Kathy Mansell MInD, Tuhōe

An experienced Executive leader whom over the course of her public sector career has worked with many vulnerable adults.  Kathy has seen and experienced gaps in the system including for Māori.  Kathy is currently the Chief Operating Officer at Tupu Tonu, Ngāpuhi Investment Fund Ltd.

Charity Team

Adi Christie, Principal Advisor

Annalese Booker, Brand and Marketing

Cameron McFetridge, Graphic Design Specialist.

Cecily McNeill, legal and communications expertise.

Strategic supporters

Our strategic supporters draw on their lived experience and community-informed perspectives to amplify the voices of vulnerable adults in our strategic discussions.

They also network within their communities to support the work of Vulnerable Adults Voice.

Charity status

Vulnerable Adults Voice is currently in the process of applying to become a registered charity with the New Zealand Charities Register.

Following the registration a donation page will be included in the website.