Initiative to support and maintain positive mental health

Initiative to support and maintain positive mental health launched

Children in Canterbury’s earthquake affected communities are set to benefit from additional support to promote and maintain positive mental health as the first phase of a new initiative is launched.

The first workers of the Government’s initiative to enhance mental health support in schools, Mana Ake – Stronger for Tomorrow, went live in Tamai and Hornby Kāhui Ako (Communities of Learning) today.

The two Kāhui Ako [Tamai and Hornby] were chosen because they have significant diversity and provide an opportunity to improve equitable access to health support and services. The Hornby cluster of schools [Kāhui Ako] reflects the increased demand in the area following post-quake population movement.
Canterbury DHB Chief Executive, David Meates said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to get this initiative underway and start providing practical, hands-on support to schools, children and their whanau.

The initiative is led by Chair of the Canterbury Clinical Network, Sir John Hansen.

“As more schools come on board the foundations will be built on so we can ensure resources are tailored to the needs of each community and aligned with existing services,” Sir John said.

Mana Ake – Stronger for Tomorrow is being developed collaboratively by people working in education, health, police, Oranga Tamariki, and non-Government Organisations.

The initial design of an electronic pathways tool (Leading Lights) has been created to help education professionals navigate to appropriate health services for children and whanau.

Both the practical and electronic parts of the initiative will continue to be developed in conjunction with schools and shaped by engagement with children and their whanau as it’s progressively rolled out across Canterbury from term 3 (July 2018). Lessons from implementing Mana Ake in the Kāhui Ako will help inform how we can successfully roll out the programme in other schools.

For more information visit www.ccn.health.nz

ENDS

© Scoop Media