RANZCP welcomes He Ara Oranga report

RANZCP welcomes He Ara Oranga report into mental health and addiction

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists’ New Zealand National Committee – Tu Te Akaaka Roa – welcomes the much anticipated report of the Government Inquiry into Mental Health and Addiction.

The New Zealand National Committee Acting Co-Chair, Dr Rosie Edwards, said: ‘We acknowledge the work of the panel members in producing this comprehensive report – He Ara Oranga – as it clearly provides a model for transforming the mental health and addiction outcomes for all New Zealanders.

‘The report’s focus on promoting wellbeing is to be commended’.

‘We are encouraged by the report’s kaupapa that places people at the centre of services. We were heartened to see that the report recommends a bold approach to addressing suicide prevention as well as reducing alcohol and drug related harm.’

‘The RANZCP advocated for strengthening the relationship between primary care and secondary care, enhancing collaboration with consumers and carers, reducing the access barriers to mental health services, especially for Māori and developing early interventions,’ said Dr Edwards.

‘We are pleased to note that many of the recommendations in the report are aligned with our submission.’

Dr Arran Culver, New Zealand National Committee Acting Co-Chair, emphasised the importance of a fully resourced, integrated and co-ordinated approach to mental health reform.

‘We are committed to supporting a robust whole of sector co-design, co-production process that has people’s voices at the centre. We support the establishment of the Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission to lead structured implementation of the recommendations.’

The RANZCP New Zealand National Committee will take the opportunity to review the report in detail.

We look forward to working together with the Government, NGOs, the primary care sector and other stakeholders to create a ‘once in a generation’ opportunity to improve mental health and wellbeing.

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