Health Pou

We aim to remove barriers to effective mental health for specific disadvantage social groups by:

• Enable access to diverse support options, including rongoā and innovative locally based solutions.
• Support cultural responsiveness/practice for the mental health workforce, including career pathways for diverse communities.
• Build people's own health literacy, capability, and resilience.

Data and evidence supports our decision making 

We commissioned Ihi Research to provide more understanding about where there is greatest need and inequalities in our communities. The data indicates the need for mental health support is considerable. The system does not appear to be responsive to the needs of many of the communities we serve.

A key learning of our research is the importance of working alongside communities, ensuring that underserved communities are part of the design of health solutions.

We are particularly interested in supporting those for whom health inequalities are evidenced.  Our funding seeks to target young people from Māori, Pasifika, and rainbow communities; and help improve maternal mental health for young Māori mothers.