As members receive this latest Grey Power magazine, the annual general meeting will be long over. However, there was much to digest. This issue provides some insights.
Firstly, an abridged report from the former president, Gayle Chambers who retired due to ill health.
She tasked the Federation and associations to work together to prove Grey Power as a forced to be reckoned with. This challenge was well received and, there was a sense of positivity going forward.
Among items reported, Mrs Chambers mentioned the successful relaunch of the Grey Power brand, including an updated logo and the instigation of a strong marketing structure including the adoption of a strategic plan focusing on five areas:
- An organisational structure review
- Leadership
- Financial stability
- Marketing
- Communication
Despite having a dedicated Board, as well as zone reps focused on their association needs, she acknowledged that not everyone had the skill set to fulfil the portfolios or standing committee roles assigned to them.
The future election of professionals with specific skills, including in health, retirement income and housing, was seen as desirable.
To protect the Federation’s financial viability, a difficult decision was made [last year] to introduce magazine subscriptions to save Grey Power $200,000 per year in postage.
Despite mixed reception, there has been an uptake from members who want the magazine delivered to their homes. The placement of ‘drop boxes’ in public places has also introduced many non-members to Grey Power.
With renewed emphasis on improved communication, the employment of Federation co-ordinator, Johnathan Dietz has seen helpful new initiatives come into play.
A decision was also made to include advocacy visits at the end of face-to-face Board meetings to save on flight and accommodation costs.
Additional to Gayle’s initial report, the now president, David Marshall, added that several issues long advocated by the Federation had come to fruition. To mention a few:
- The Rates Rebate Scheme maximum annual income lifted to the same as the NZ Super married rate for all New Zealanders on the Super.
- An increase in the maximum Accommodation Supplement payment – the first since 2018. Unfortunately, this is only possible with an increase in the percentage of income required to be paid as rent for those in social housing. No progress has been made to increase the asset level for the Accommodation Supplement from $8200 to something similar as the $44,000 available to those in social housing.
- The SuperGold Card to become an identity card for all seniors who no longer have proof of identity such as a current passport or driving licence. This looks like being actioned next year.
- Significant increased investment in health in the latest budget. Unfortunately, the investments are likely to take some time to create real change.
- The NZTA response to our advocacy over the past 2 years on senior driving licence renewals, including :
– A six-month window prior to the qualifying birthday to complete all assessments.
– More On-Road Safety Test assessors to reduce waiting times for those referred by their GP.
– Free On-Road Safety Tests for those aged 75+.
– Recognition that the clinical evidence does not support use of cognitive tests to determine the driving ability of seniors. (see pages 14-15).
Finally, the Board has received confirmation that GPF can become a charity under the new constitution.
