Māori mental health pilot point to new approach

A Gisborne-based kaupapa Māori mental health service will benefit from a new approach to funding mental health services.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Health Minister David Clark yesterday announced $6 million of funding for existing, but currently unfunded, mental health services at 22 general practices and for Te Kūwatawata.

The joint venture between Te Kupenga Net Trust, Pinnacle Midland Health Network and Tairawhiti district health board which has been supported by the Health Ministry’s Fit for Future innovation funding pool.

Dr Clark says the ministry had received consistent feedback that Te Kūwatawata’s emphasis on whānau and mātauranga has helped many who haven’t found success with mainstream approaches.

He says the GP services have mental health workers on hand so when people turn up at primary care in distress there is support available immediately.

The ministry will soon put out for tender $30 million of new contracts for front line services, in the hope new and existing health providers, iwi and NGO groups put forward proposals for innovative services to support people living with mental health and addiction issues.

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