Our Patron
Her Excellency The Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, Governor General
Laura Fergusson Trust is honoured to have the Governor-General of New Zealand as its Patron.
This vice-regal patronage recognises Laura Fergusson Trust’s contribution to the wellbeing and inclusion of disabled people and our wider community, and reflects the important place of disability support within the fabric of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Who we are
Laura Fergusson Trust is a registered charity supporting adults impacted by stroke, brain injury, physical disability and progressive conditions through residential and community-based rehabilitation, respite, and recreational services.
For over 50 years, we’ve helped people live full, confident lives by focusing on what they can do.
What we stand for
Our mission is to inspire opportunities and belonging, and we achieve that through our vision of active participation and contribution in all aspects of life.
Our values are
- Aroha | Empathy
We are kind, have a desire to know and understand others. - Kanorau awhitanga | Embracing diversity
We respect people, value difference and are committed to equity. - Kia maia | courage
We are prepared to change and lead the way by being the best we can be.
Meet the team
At Laura Fergusson, it’s our people who make this place feel like home. From care staff to coordinators, administrators to leadership, everyone plays a part in creating a community built on compassion, respect, and genuine connection. Meet some of the incredible individuals who bring heart and purpose to everything we do.
Claire Richardson - Pou Matua | Chief Executive
Claire Richardson is the Laura Fergusson Trust Pou Matua | Chief Executive.
As a parent of a disabled young adult, Claire has a strong affinity for the Laura Fergusson kaupapa, and she enjoys contributing to an organisation dedicated to supporting disabled people live their best lives.
Claire brings extensive executive leadership experience across Aotearoa and globally, within large, complex organisations, leading wide-ranging services.
Claire has worked in not-for-profit, commercial and government sectors. Before joining Laura Fergusson Trust, she was the Chief Operating Officer at Wellington City Council and then a Deputy Secretary at Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand.
Claire is a warm, authentic, inclusive leader, with a strong focus on people and building partnerships to achieve outcomes.
Alison Molloy - GM Projects
“I love the energy of this place – it’s dynamic, full of life, and grounded in purpose.
We advocate fiercely for our residents and create an environment where staff feel supported to do their best work.
Diversity and equity aren’t just values here – they’re practised daily. It’s a place where curiosity is encouraged, and everyone has each other’s back.”
Deidre Hampton-Eales - GM Client Services
“I joined Laura Fergusson Trust to help people live with more independence, dignity, and choice – and that’s still what inspires me every day.
Since 2016, I’ve supported the growth of our community rehab programme and now oversee services across Naenae, Whanganui, and the wider region.
I’m passionate about equity, inclusion, and making sure the voices of those we support are truly heard.
At Laura Fergusson Trust, it’s not just about care – it’s about creating a home where people are valued, respected, and empowered to live life on their own terms.”
Andrew Tierney - GM Business
Rachel Halfpenny - HR Manager
“This is a place where the work we do is personal – and the impact is visible. I once spoke with a resident in their own language and saw how much it meant to them, they now greet me daily in three languages (Samoan, Te Reo, and English). That’s the kind of connection we foster here.
Our team is small and close-knit, and we’re committed to supporting staff so they can, in turn, give residents the care and dignity they deserve.”
Rama Time - Clinical Nurse Manager
“For me, Laura Fergusson Trust truly feels like a home away from home. My dad lived here for 11 years, so I being a visitor saw firsthand the incredible work the staff put into supporting residents.
Now, being part of the team, I get to contribute to that same care and empowerment from the inside.
One of my most meaningful experiences has been supporting a resident through palliative care; being present in her final moments and helping ensure she passed peacefully was an honour I’ll never forget.
The residents lead the way, and we’re privileged to share in their space. Our team supports one another working together to deliver the very best for our residents.”
Sela Mulitalo - Residential Manager
“What makes Laura Fergusson so special is the way we come together – not just as colleagues, but as a family.
We celebrate our wins and support each other through the tough times. Our holistic, person-centred approach means residents are treated as equals, not just cared for but truly seen.
Some of our most powerful moments have come from simply being present with one another – in joy, in grief, and in growth.”
Marama Puketapu - Cultural Advisor
“One of the most rewarding parts of my role is witnessing our residents grow – especially when that progress brings them happiness.
A moment that moved me deeply was when a deaf and blind resident recited a karakia, mihimihi, and pepeha with almost perfect pronunciation. I couldn’t help but shed a tear.
What makes Laura Fergusson different is that our residents aren’t treated like patients – they’re supported to live their lives with dignity and independence.
As Cultural Advisor, I’m fortunate to work across all teams, helping to weave cultural understanding and respect into every part of our home.”
Shannan Clarke - Branch Manager, Whanganui
“As Branch Manager, I’m proud to lead a team that brings compassion, skill, and dedication to everything we do.
Laura Fergusson isn’t just a residential care facility – it’s a true home, where residents feel safe, supported, and empowered to live as independently as possible.
What makes Whanganui special is our smaller size, which allows strong, meaningful bonds to form between residents. We share in each other’s experiences and challenges, creating a supportive environment where residents can become their true selves.”
Dale Beaumont - Facilities Manager
“I love working at Laura Fergusson Trust because no two days are ever the same; whether it’s facing new challenges or sharing laughter with residents, every day is rewarding.
Our philosophy is all about enabling residents to live their best lives, supporting independence, dignity, and happiness.
What makes Laura Fergusson Trust feel special is the sense of community; staff and residents alike truly support one another. I’m proud to be part of a team that works so well together to make a difference.”
Our history
Over 50 years ago, Lady Laura Fergusson, wife of then Governor-General Sir Bernard Fergusson, recognised the lack of appropriate residential facilities for people living with disabilities and took action to change that.
Today, Laura Fergusson continues her legacy by delivering high-quality clinical care and essential community programmes to New Zealanders affected by stroke, brain injury, physical disabilities, and progressive conditions such as Huntington’s Disease, MS, and Parkinson’s Disease.
Over the decades, our services have evolved to meet the changing needs of individuals, families, and funders in the health and disability sector. What began as a response to a housing gap has grown into a comprehensive support network.
We now focus on delivering expert rehabilitation and community-based support through a skilled team of specialists, guided by a professional and compassionate leadership team.
Make a Difference Every Day at Laura Fergusson Trust
At LFT, no two days are the same. You’ll be part of a supportive team that values independence, dignity, and happiness for every resident. From meaningful conversations to shared laughter, the work is as rewarding as it is unique. If you’re looking for a role where you can grow, feel valued, and truly make an impact, join us at Laura Fergusson Trust — and help people live their best lives.