Joanne Thomson Community Social Worker

I have been working as a part-time social worker at the Nelson Women’s Centre since June 2019. Prior to this, I worked in mental health for the Nelson Marlborough District Health Board (NMDHB) and have experience working in the supported employment field. Throughout my career, I have worked in a variety of social service environments, including education, probation, and as a project manager for Kainga Ora. 

My interests include mental health and wellbeing, helping women access resources including the family court and domestic violence programmes, and advocating for issues involving pay equity. I have a strong appreciation for the natural world and have lived in Whakatū (Nelson) twice (having previously left to work in Wellington), returning to settle for the beautiful weather and natural environment the Whakatū and Golden Bay regions provide.