CHRISTINE THOMPSON, MIDWIFE FROM UNITED KINGDOM

I first met Prudence and Helen at the NZ Expo, London in October 2005, just after I qualified. I knew that I would have to get my BSc and some work experience before I could apply for a job in NZ, but that was ok as I am a planner by nature and like to research things well in advance! We kept in touch by email now and again and in October 2006, after receiving my BSc and having worked for a year, I applied for my NZ Registration through the NZ Midwifery Council. This process took a few months, but once it was granted, I was ready to apply for a job. However, having never been to NZ before, I thought it best to come on holiday and see where I wanted to live.

My daughter Rachael and I took a trip over in April 2007, and drove from Auckland down to Wellington via Taraunga, Rotorura, Lake Taupo, and Napier. After spending a couple of days in Wellington, we took a flight to Christchurch and as we landed I just knew that this was the place for me. Prudence was only holiday at this time, so I met up with Helen and she took me through the application process and discussed my desires in terms of location etc.

Within two weeks of arriving home I had an email from Helen that a job had come up in Christchurch. Of course I applied immediately and Helen was there to help me every step of the way. She called me before my interview to reassure me and to help settle my nerves, and then called straight back after, to see how I got on. She was a wonderful support to me and couldn't have been more helpful. A few days passed before Helen rang me again to say I had the Job and she seemed almost as excited as I was!! From that day on Helen and I had daily contact (apart from weekends of course!), making arrangements for my transfer to NZ! Knowing that I had the job, I immediately applied for my Residency Visa, which I actually only received the afternoon before I left the UK!!!

After a gruelling 2-day journey (having been delayed in L.A.) Helen met us from the airport and took us to a lovely hotel, which was to be our home for a short time. However, eager to get settled, we were off house hunting the very first afternoon and found our dream home on day 3!! Two weeks have passed now and we have a car; Rachael is starting school and I am due to start work in a couple of days; and it has all been just great! Helen has called or texted us almost every day to make sure were ok and is always glad to see us if we call in.

I personally think that the staff at Accent work above and beyond their 'call of duty' and that's what makes them different from the rest. To the staff at Accent, it isn't just a job, they actually care and that makes all the difference when you are moving to the other side of the world!!!

Thanks Helen and Prudence, you've done another great job!!!

Christine and Rachael Thompson x x x