Community day full of useful and free advice

Free health checks, job seeking help and vehicle safety are just some of the services on offer during the Nelson Community Information Day this week.

A wide range of organisations are offering their services for free during the day, including Age Concern, Nelson Marlborough Technical Institute and Neighbourhood Support.

The event is organised by Nelson police and Te Korowai Trust and is taking place at Annesbrook Church on Thursday.

Senior sergeant Grant Andrews said the open day was an opportunity for people, no matter their age, to learn about things that could benefit them and make a positive difference in their daily lives.

‘‘We just want to encourage people to come along and wander around.

‘‘It’s a good day for people to look at alternatives that might improve the prospect of work and in some cases the quality of life.’’

Te Korowai’s Betty Soane said the event was open to everyone.

‘‘Not everyone knows where to go for help, so we hope this is a stepping stone for them to seek support.’’

Police, Ride to Live and ACC Ride Forever representatives will provide information about driving safely as well as offering discounted opportunities.

There will be free food, spot prizes of caps, oil packs, jump starter packs, umbrellas and jackets. There will also be a draw to give away a new child’s car seat.

Nelson nurses will be based in a new field emergency tent to conduct free basic health tests, including blood pressure checks.

Age Concern will conduct checks for the elderly to ensure their vehicles are set up correctly for them to drive safely.

Plunket will demonstrate a driveway safety kit and Te Korowai staff will be able to ensure baby seats are correctly fitted. NMIT staff will explain how its dip- training loma courses can open up job opportunities and Neighbourhood Support will provide safety information.

Other organisations including Te Korowai Trust and Victory Boxing will be giving advice and assistance on domestic violence, healthy cooking and nutrition and the benefits of exercise.

Community Information Day, Annesbrook Church hall, September 21 from 10am to 2pm. Admission, services and food is free.

A photograph run with a story about the information day published in the Nelson Leader on September 14 was outdated given changes in circumstances since it was taken. The error and any distress caused is regretted.