We are grateful for our health sector staff working year-round to care for the people and their families who need support.  

This year our health system has again been operating under significant pressure as we continue to feel the impact of global workforce shortages and rising costs. It has been a tough year for many people across Aotearoa and our mental health and addiction services continue to be in high demand. Thank you for the work you do.

I’ve now been acting in this role for three months and in this short time I have witnessed the huge amount of mahi across the sector to improve access to services and support people to stay well. I want to thank you for your commitment to supporting tāngata whaiora.

Looking ahead to next year, we have some significant pieces of work to deliver. A lot of this work is already in progress, and we’ve provided some updates in this newsletter. I’d also like to take this opportunity to remind you that the Health Select Committee consultation on the Mental Health Bill closes on 20 December. This is an important set of proposed changes and sets out the future framework for compulsory mental health care. I encourage you to have your say.  

While the summer break can bring families and friends closer, it can also be a stressful and challenging time. I encourage you to look after yourself, and there is helpful advice available on the Mental Health Foundation website. I’d like to wish you all the best for a safe and relaxing summer. 

Ngā mihi
Geoff 
Acting Deputy-Director General
Clinical, Community and Mental Health  

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