Taranaki's Tui Ora goes smokefree in time for world event

Media release
8 May 2014

Clearing the air at Tui Ora sites

Tui Ora has launched a campaign for all its sites to become smoke free in the month that the country looks ahead to World Smokefree Day.

The health and social services organisation has offices and clinics around Taranaki, in Mokau, Waitara, New Plymouth, Hawera, Opunake and Patea.

From May 31, it will ask all staff, patients and visitors to stub out cigarettes and not smoke anywhere in its grounds or buildings. Existing designated smoking areas will no longer exist. The policy will also apply to vehicles owned or leased by the organisation and those onsite.

World Smokefree Day takes place on Saturday May 31. The theme for 2014 is ‘Quit now. It’s about whānau.’

Chief executive Hayden Wano says it is a big move for Tui Ora, but as a health care industry leader in Taranaki it needs to act responsibility on this major health issue.

“We have a duty to provide a safe and healthy environment. We are committed not just to healing illness but also promoting wellness. The effects of smoking and second hand smoke are well-documented – in particular, the impact on Māori of all ages.”

He says people wishing to quit also gain the benefit of other wrap-around services available at Tui Ora: Everything from mental health and addiction programmes to primary nursing and the GP service, Tui Ora Family Health.

Existing smokers – both staff and clients – are being given support in the weeks leading up to May 31. Free confidential services are available or people can be referred to an external provider.

Tui Ora has a range of smoking cessation services for clients. These include the Mana Wahine Hapu programme for pregnant women and whanau, group-based programmes and the individualised AKP programme. Services are free and flexible, designed to better support people in the community.

People can refer themselves or be referred by other health providers.

Tui Ora sites include the Maru Wehi Hauora complex in Maratahu St, New Plymouth, as well as the Youth Service office in St Aubyn St. The organisation also has offices in Hawera and Waitara, a Youth Service office in Hawera and clinics in Mokau, Opunake and Patea.

ENDS

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