Research provides evidence of the impact of Whānau Ora

Research and evaluation reports were presented in Christchurch last night by leading wellbeing economics expert Professor Paul Dalziel and Dr Catherine Savage of Ihi Research which provides a significant evidence base that the South Island Whānau Ora model is worth investing in.

The potential return on the employment outcomes of one Whānau Ora initiative, He Toki Apprenticeship Trust, is substantial. “Our findings indicate the initiative would potentially return $7 for every $1 invested” says Professor Dalziel.

“We carried out research on He Toki Apprenticeship Trust to analyse the return on investment of the Whānau Ora approach which supports trainees through their apprenticeships in partnership with Ngāi Tahu, Hawkins Construction, the BCITO and ARA. Māori youth are employed by the trust and placed with host employers for work and their apprenticeship” he said.

Recent evaluation of 38 Whānau Ora initiatives funded by Te Putahitanga o Te Waipounamu has provided evidence that wide-ranging positive social, cultural and economic outcomes have been accomplished. “This research is significant because these outcomes wouldn’t be possible through a service-delivery based approach” says Dr Catherine Savage of Ihi Research.

“Initiatives such as group training schemes, youth leadership camps, fitness and lifestyle, nutrition and culture focussed entities are all built around the philosophy of Whānau Ora – driven by whānau for whānau. Our research shows the approach is making a positive social impact by building cultural and community connectedness, social, health and economic developments for whānau” says Dr Savage.

Te Pūtahitanga o Te Waipounamu is a vehicle through which whānau are enabled to pursue their aspirations and supports whānau to create sustained social impact. The model invests in ideas and initiatives to improve a broad range of wellbeing outcomes for whānau, underpinned by a whānau-centred approach A distinguishing feature of the South Island model is that is enacts the vision of the nine iwi of the South Island: Ngāi Tahu; Ngāti Apa ki te Rā Tō; Ngāti Tama; Ngāti Kuia; Ngāti Koata; Te Ati Awa; Ngāti Toa Rangatira; Rangitāne ki Wairau and Ngāti Rarua.

“Our model is built on the foundation of self-determination, it recognises potential and brings change. Quite simply, it is the most powerful expression of whānau momentum which is being demonstrated right across Te Waipounamu. It is such a privilege to be part of this journey of change”. says Helen Leahy, Pouarahi / Chief Executive of Te Putahitanga o Te Waipounamu.

ENDS

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