What's happening in government

Mental Health Act amendment to include family whanau in recovery

Luamanuvao Winnie Laban Member’s Bill designed to strengthen the rights of families and whänau of patients who are being dealt with under the Mental Health Act has been drawn from the ballot.

Minister Turia delivers on her promises

In June 2009 Tariana Turia, Minister of the Community and Voluntary sector, received the ANGOA report Good Intentions, a review of the Government's Statement of Intent for an Improved relationship with the sector.

The Minister has now presented a paper to Cabinet that covers the Government's commitment to take the concerns of the community sector seriously. The Minister is proposing a Relationship Agreement and a Principles for Effective Engagement be developed to ensure government agencies recognise this commitment. A Code of Funding Practice, a Disputes Procedure and seminars on Good Practice and Engagement will also be developed. 

Read the Press Release.

Read the cabinet paper.

Meeting the Challenge - Report of the Ministerial Review Group July 2009

This report signals the changes we can expect in our health system if New Zealand is to bridge the gulf between providing world class quality health and the increasing costs, aging population and workforce shortages.

This short Platform summary describes the key issues and the NGO mental health and disability impacts.

Comment http://www.stuff.co.nz/sunday-star-times/business/2776525/Economy-held-back-by-health-spending

All the responses to the Report are now on line