The Osteopathic Children's Foundation Charitable Trust (OCF) is an organisation dedicated to providing free osteopathic services to children across New Zealand. Founded in 2018 by a group of passionate individuals, including senior osteopaths and a commercial lawyer, the OCF aims to remove financial barriers that prevent children from accessing osteopathic care.
Osteopathy is a holistic, gentle, and safe form of healthcare that focuses on the musculoskeletal system and its connection to overall health. It can benefit children in numerous ways, including improving posture, reducing pain, enhancing mobility, and supporting recovery from birth trauma or developmental challenges.
Osteopathic treatment is particularly useful for infants experiencing colic, reflux, or sleep disturbances, as well as for children with conditions such as asthma, recurrent ear infections, or growing pains.
Recognising that cost is a significant obstacle to treatment, the OCF's mission is to make osteopathic care accessible to all children, regardless of financial circumstances. The foundation operates two monthly clinics at...
Hamilton -The Ethos Centre, Te Ara Hou Village, located at 100 Morrinsville Road, Hamilton. (2nd Saturday of each month)
Wellington - Maungaraki Baptist Church, 164 Dowse Drive, Lower Hutt (last Saturday of each month)
Here, experienced paediatric osteopaths volunteer their time to treat children in a supportive and family-centred environment.
The clinic primarily serves children from lower socio-economic backgrounds and those with severe health conditions, ensuring that high-quality osteopathic care is available to those who need it most.
Beyond direct patient care, the OCF funds research, education, and teaching initiatives to advance osteopathy and complementary health services for children. The foundation also supports hospitals and healthcare organisations by providing essential equipment and services needed to offer free osteopathic treatment.
Through these initiatives, the Osteopathic Children's Foundation is making a significant impact on children's health and well-being, ensuring they receive the care they need to thrive.
