Hutt community reps create own mental health plan

Fed up with government inaction on mental health issues, Hutt community representatives have taken matters into their own hands and created a plan of their own.

Members of the public shared their stories about struggling with mental health at a public meeting held at the Petone Rugby Club last month.

Ginny Andersen, Labour candidate for Hutt South, organised the public meeting to address the ‘woeful’ condition of mental health support in the Hutt.

People with mental health issues in the Hutt are not well supported. Funding for primary mental health services offered by Hutt DHB was cut by 20% last year. In Wainuiomata there are currently no publicly available mental health services available.

Attendees at the meeting were asked what their aspirations were for people with mental health issues, their supporters and families. These shared stories and issues have driven the creation of a community-led plan for the Hutt.

‘I’m determined to make issues of mental health more visible in our community and promote practical solutions for struggling children, families, and carers,’ says Andersen.

The community action plan identifies four key areas with distinct issues and actions. These key areas are children and young people; adults; the elderly; and supporters and carers.

‘This is about respecting, valuing and prioritising people with mental health issues,’ says Andersen.

ENDS

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