A significant investment in mental health services.
The government has pledged $3.5 million annually to expand specialist infant, child, and adolescent mental health services (ICAMHS) in Tairāwhiti, Counties Manukau, and Waitematā. This funding aims to address the disparity in these regions, which have lower investment compared to other areas.
According to Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey, workforce shortages are a major barrier to timely mental health support. The additional funding will enable the expansion of ICAMHS teams and services to meet the needs of vulnerable members in these communities. Each region has individual plans for utilizing this funding:
Counties Manukau will establish a dedicated clinical team for children with moderate to severe mental health needs, receiving over $2 million annually. Waitematā will employ specialist clinical roles to address neurodevelopmental issues, while Tairāwhiti is still developing its approach but expects to expand hospital and specialist services.
The government's commitment to improving access and support for New Zealanders is evident in this funding allocation, which also aims to deliver on the government's mental health targets.