FIONA FAIRBAIRN
Community Support worker - Mental Health
Dunedin,OTA
Summary
Throughout my life I have gained considerable satisfaction from empowering people by working alongside them to promote their physical and mental wellbeing. Having worked and volunteered in many positions I am confident working in groups and have excellent oral and written skills. I learn quickly, have good attention to detail, and consider myself to be hard working. I am currently looking for a role that complements my skill set and experience.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Community Support Worker
The Pact Group
Wanaka, OTA
05.2023 - Current
- Assisted clients in achieving greater independence, fostering a sense of empowerment through guidance and encouragement.
- Conduct Access and Choice programme in the community, working alongside Health Improvement Practitioners, Health Coaches, and Medical Practitioners
- Support youth and adults with long term mental health conditions
- Assist people in their desire to regain physical and/or mental wellness (for example, health, social, education, employment, and housing) keeping up-to-date notes using Client Management Systems
- Liaising with other health professionals attending team and individual meetings completing ongoing training writing monthly and yearly reports e.g., payment cards, car reports, client goals
- Delivered consistent follow-up care to monitor progress towards goals, adjusting support strategies as necessary based on ongoing evaluation results.
- Connected clients with appropriate community resources, effectively navigating complex systems on their behalf.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure seamless delivery of community support services and optimal client outcomes.
Mental Health Peer Support Worker
Creative Arts Trust/Artsenta
Central Otago
01.2022 - 05.2023
- Facilitating creative wellbeing programme supporting clients during sessions and one-on-one promoting/liaising with other health professionals
- Improved client well-being by sharing personal experiences, coping strategies, and resources in a relatable manner.
- Provided crisis intervention support, helping clients navigate through challenging situations with appropriate resources and referrals.
- Contributed to program evaluations by gathering feedback from clients on their experiences with peer support services.
- Facilitated community integration for clients by connecting them with local resources relevant to their interests and needs.
- Fostered relationships with partner agencies and other interested parties to build pipeline of supportive services.
- Listened to clients' concerns and provided encouragement and support.
- Supported individuals dealing with mental health and emotional issues.
Swim Coach
Fluid Athlete
Wanaka, OTA
08.2018 - 02.2021
- Coaching swimming to adults and liaising with clients, other team members and pool staff
- Demonstrated all swimming strokes and observed athletes carefully to correct technique and form.
- Developed strong relationships with swimmers, creating open communication channels for feedback and goal setting.
- Provided individualised attention during practice sessions to ensure progress towards personal goals for each swimmer.
- Established a positive environment during practice sessions, nurturing a culture of respect, hard work, and dedication among swimmers.
- Challenged athletes by consistently using positive reinforcement and gentle criticism.
- Implemented exercise programs and training strategies to bolster individual and team performance.
Swim Coach
Aspiring Swimmers
Wanaka, OTA
11.2005 - 02.2019
- I was self-employed coaching and teaching swimming to all ages and levels, both in the pool and in the lake
- I also contracted out to the local swim club
- Teaching and coaching swimming, including coaching an athlete for 8 years until he competed at the Rio Paralympic Games, 2016
- Travelling with swim teams
- Motivating swimmers
- Working with other health staff such as doctors and physiotherapists
- Completing monthly reports for meetings with boards and committees
- Demonstrated all swimming strokes and observed swimmers carefully to correct technique and form.
- Developed strong relationships with swimmers and their families, creating open communication channels for feedback and goal setting.
- Provided individualised attention during practice sessions to ensure progress towards personal goals for each swimmer.
- Established a positive environment during practice sessions, nurturing a culture of respect, hard work, and dedication among swimmers.
- Implemented injury prevention measures by teaching proper warm-up techniques, stretching routines, and strength exercises.
- Alleviated athlete stress and boosted overall enthusiasm for long practices through positive attitude and motivational techniques.
- Challenged athletes by consistently using positive reinforcement and gentle criticism.
- Mentored beginner coaches on effective techniques for instructing swimmers at various skill levels.
- Improved overall team performance by emphasizing mental preparedness techniques such as goal setting, visualization, and relaxation strategies.
- Continuously expanded coaching knowledge through participation in professional development workshops or conferences, staying updated on industry trends and techniques.
- Implemented exercise programs and training strategies to bolster individual and team performance.
- Enhanced swimmer performance by implementing personalized training plans and technique corrections.
- Promoted a healthy lifestyle among athletes by providing guidance on nutrition habits and recovery methods in addition to physical training protocols.
- Streamlined administrative tasks such as tracking attendance, maintaining records of swimmer achievements, and updating contact information databases for efficient organization.
- Recognized individual achievements within the team through awards ceremonies or acknowledgements during practices to boost morale and motivation amongst swimmers.
- Analyzed athlete performances using video analysis tools to provide constructive feedback and enhance stroke efficiency.
- Increased team unity through regular team-building exercises and events, fostering a supportive environment for swimmers.
- Adapted teaching techniques to different learning styles.
- Provided positive reinforcement and motivation to increase student confidence and performance.
Swim Instructor
Queenstown Lakes District Council
Wanaka, OTA
07.2016 - 06.2018
- Taught daily swim instruction to students varying in ages and skill levels.
- Maintained CPR, First Aid, and lifeguard certifications to ensure preparedness for emergency situations during lessons.
- Promoted a fun learning environment through engaging activities and games designed to reinforce essential swimming skills.
- Improved swimmer confidence by providing consistent positive reinforcement and constructive feedback on technique.
- Provided positive reinforcement and motivation to increase student confidence and performance.
- Took notes strengths and weaknesses of each child in class to track progress.
- Addressed behavioural issues promptly using a fair and consistent approach, fostering a respectful learning environment for all participants.
- Planned classes covering different ages and skill levels to prepare students for basic and advanced swimming needs.
- Adapted teaching techniques to different learning styles.
- Communicated clearly and positively with parents to ensure expectations were met and exceeded.
- Assisted in setting up pool deck, cleaning up public areas and closing pool in unsafe conditions.
- Collaborated with other instructors to develop innovative teaching methods for improved student outcomes.
- Mentored and trained new swim instructors on best practices.
- Collaborated with aquatic centre staff to coordinate schedules, pool availability, and other logistical needs, ensuring smooth operation of swim lessons program.
Carer/Support Worker
Presbyterian Support Otago
Wanaka, OTA
10.2008 - 10.2010
- Built strong relationships with clients to deliver emotional support and companionship.
- Assisted with dressing guidance, grooming, meal preparation, and medication reminders.
- Maintained accurate records of patient care, documenting progress and any changes in condition.
- Implemented safety measures to prevent falls, accidents, and injuries within the home environment.
- Improved patient well-being by providing compassionate and attentive care.
- Delivered personal hygiene assistance including bathing grooming dressing feeding toileting all while maintaining client privacy respect.
- Assisted patients with daily living activities, promoting independence and dignity.
Manager
Wanaka Swim Pool
Wanaka, OTA
10.2006 - 04.2008
- All administration involved in position such as banking, budgeting, hiring staff, rosters
- Basic maintenance and cleaning, life guarding, marketing and fundraising
- Managed and motivated employees to be productive and engaged in work.
- Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes.
- Maintained professional, organized, and safe environment for employees and patrons.
- Onboarded new employees with training and new hire documentation.
- Controlled costs to keep business operating within budget and increase profits.
- Communicated clearly with employees, suppliers and stakeholders to keep everyone on same page and working toward established business goals.
- Developed and maintained relationships with customers and suppliers through account development.
- Developed a strong company culture focused on employee engagement, collaboration, and continuous learning opportunities.
- Improved marketing to attract new customers and promote business.
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations and legal requirements by implementing comprehensive policies and training programs for staff members.
Swim Coach and Instructor, Gym Instructor, Receptionist
Wharenui Swim Club
Christchurch, CAN
11.2003 - 06.2005
- Working as part of a team
- Working in many areas with public
- Demonstrated all swimming strokes and observed athletes carefully to correct technique and form.
- Developed strong relationships with swimmers and their families, creating open communication channels for feedback and goal setting.
- Collaborated with other coaches to develop effective team training strategies and practice schedules.
- Enhanced member fitness levels by creating and implementing tailored workout plans.
- Collaborated with fellow instructors to develop innovative training programs for diverse client needs.
- Developed rapport with gym members through personalised coaching sessions, fostering a supportive environment.
- Contributed to increased membership retention by providing exceptional customer service and consistently meeting clients' expectations.
- Restocked supplies and submitted purchase orders to maintain stock levels.
- Provided clerical support to company employees by copying, faxing, and filing documents.
- Answered central telephone system and directed calls accordingly.
- Maintained a well-organized reception area with updated materials, contributing to a welcoming environment for visitors.
- Responded to inquiries from callers seeking information.
Weight Loss Consultant and Programme Director
Jenny Craig
Dunedin, OTA
01.2002 - 11.2003
- Marketing and sales
- Consultation with clients
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
Swim Coach and Instructor
Duncan Laing Swim School
Dunedin, OTA
09.1991 - 10.1996
- Liaising with parents, team members, pool staff and public patrons
- Demonstrated all swimming strokes and observed swimmers carefully to correct technique and form.
- Developed strong relationships with swimmers and their families, creating open communication channels for feedback and goal setting.
- Provided individualised attention during practice sessions to ensure progress towards personal goals for each swimmer.
- Established a positive environment during practice sessions, nurturing a culture of respect, hard work, and dedication among swimmers.
- Collaborated with other coaches to develop effective team training strategies and practice schedules.
- Alleviated athlete stress and boosted overall enthusiasm for long practices through positive attitude and motivational techniques.
- Challenged athletes by consistently using positive reinforcement and gentle criticism.
- Continuously expanded coaching knowledge through participation in professional development workshops or conferences, staying updated on industry trends and techniques.
Education
Intentional Peer Support Worker -
Intentional Peer Support Organisation
New Zealand04.2022
PostGrad Diploma in Sport & Exercise Medicine with Distinction -
University of Otago
Dunedin, OTA07.2021
PostGrad Diploma in Health Sciences (Obesity Prevention & Management) with Distinction -
University of Otago
Dunedin, OTA12.2020
Bachelor of Physical Education -
University of Otago
Dunedin, OTA07.1991
University Entrance (accredited) -
Parkway College
Wainuiomata, WGN11.1985
Comprehensive Workplace First Aid -
MediTrain
Wanaka, OTA06.2023
Skills
- Communication
- Flexible
- Motivated
- Passionate
- Behavioural support
- Disability Awareness
- Individualised support
- Family engagement
- Client Advocacy
- Mental health knowledge
- Data Entry and Reporting
- Recreational Activities
- Emotional awareness
- Computer skills including email, Microsoft Office, internet searching, Zoom meetings, Teams meetings
Accomplishments
- Completed International Ice Mile Swim, 2023, Swam 1.61km in 3.79 degrees water. 534th person in world to complete this.
- Swimming Length of Lake Dunstan Solo, 2023, I was the first person ever to swim the length of Lake Dunstan which is 33 km long. It took me 13 hours and 34 minutes to complete and I achieved it without a wetsuit. I also used the swim to raise money for the Otago/Southland Rescue Helicopter Trust.
- University of Otago Council Commendation for Exceptional Performance, 2021, Received for NUTN 402 - Nutrition and Health Promotion and for SPME709 - Women in Sport: Health Issues
- Swimming Length of Lake Wanaka Solo, 2019, I was the first person ever to swim the length of Lake Wanaka which is 45 km long. It took me 16 hours and 9 minutes to complete. I used the swim to raise money for the Darryl Fairbairn Memorial Trust, which provides free counselling for children and families going through trauma or grief.
- New Zealand Sports Medicine Journal Publication: Exercise Prescription : Are Practice Nurses Adequately Prepared for this? (Robin Day, Brodie Mills, Fiona Fairbairn), Volume 29, Number 2, 2000
- Otago Surf Rescue of the Year, 1994, The driver of the rescue boat and I were awarded this for saving a surfer off rocks, at Smaill's Beach, in Dunedin.
- Masonic Award for Outstanding Services to the School, 1986, Received this in last year of High School for my work as President of the Student School Council
Community Experience
- Darryl Fairbairn Memorial Fund, Wanaka, New Zealand, Trustee for Charity. After moving to Wanaka, I set up a charity that provides free or subsidised counselling to children and their families in the Upper Clutha region. I have raised over $30,000 since 2007. Fundraising, Give-a-Little page, Public relations, Social Media
- Wanaka Lake Swimmers, Wanaka, New Zealand, Volunteer coach as well as being an enthusiastic participant in open-water swimming, since 2012.
- Otago Marine Rescue Squad, Dunedin, New Zealand, Rescue Swimmer for rescue helicopter and Inflatable Rescue Boat, 1993-1997.
- St Clair Surf Lifesaving Club, Dunedin, New Zealand, Volunteer Lifeguard, 1991-1997. Also helped run the Beach Education Programme for school children and was Secretary of the St Clair Club.
Hobbies and Interests
- Swimming
- Colouring
- Reading
- Knitting
- Hiking
- Running
- Cross stitch
- Jigsaw puzzles
- Cooking/baking
- Visiting cafes with friends
Timeline
Community Support Worker
The Pact Group
05.2023 - Current
Mental Health Peer Support Worker
Creative Arts Trust/Artsenta
01.2022 - 05.2023
Swim Coach
Fluid Athlete
08.2018 - 02.2021
Swim Instructor
Queenstown Lakes District Council
07.2016 - 06.2018
Carer/Support Worker
Presbyterian Support Otago
10.2008 - 10.2010
Manager
Wanaka Swim Pool
10.2006 - 04.2008
Swim Coach
Aspiring Swimmers
11.2005 - 02.2019
Swim Coach and Instructor, Gym Instructor, Receptionist
Wharenui Swim Club
11.2003 - 06.2005
Weight Loss Consultant and Programme Director
Jenny Craig
01.2002 - 11.2003
Swim Coach and Instructor
Duncan Laing Swim School
09.1991 - 10.1996
Intentional Peer Support Worker -
Intentional Peer Support Organisation
PostGrad Diploma in Sport & Exercise Medicine with Distinction -
University of Otago
PostGrad Diploma in Health Sciences (Obesity Prevention & Management) with Distinction -
University of Otago
Bachelor of Physical Education -
University of Otago
University Entrance (accredited) -
Parkway College
Comprehensive Workplace First Aid -
MediTrain