Kia ora,

Having the right support available, when and where people need it most, is a key part of the primary mental health and addiction services of the Access and Choice Programme. This week we are taking another step forward with the rollout of this programme with expressions of interest now being sought to participate in the new kaupapa Māori primary mental health and addiction services procurement process. You can read more about the Request for Registrations of Interest below. This is in addition to the work we are already doing to expand access to and choice of Pacific and Youth primary mental health and addiction services.

It’s also great to have announced this week that specialist alcohol and drug addiction services are being strengthened across New Zealand. The new services being funded include additional funding for four beds at Napier’s Springhill Residential Addiction Centre, managed withdrawal services for Tairāwhiti, Lakes and all five South Island DHBs, and peer support in Rotorua, Taupō and Gisborne. Funding is also available for DHBs to strengthen existing alcohol and drug specialist services including residential care providers across the country.

This investment will help alleviate pressure on services and provide a more co-ordinated approach across regions.

Lastly, as we welcome in Matariki (or Puanga if you live on the West Coast), I hope you are able to take some time to pause, reflect, connect with whanau and friends, and plan for the new year ahead.

Ngā mihi nui

Robyn Shearer,
Deputy-Director General, Mental Health and Addiction