Ministry of Health: Draft Suicide Prevention Strategy Pasifika Fono

Held at Le Va, Harakeke House, Manukau, 24 May 2017

New Zealand suicide rates continue to be a critical issue in our country, and although some progress has been made over the years the NZ Government acknowledges more needs to be done to prevent suicide in New Zealand.  

As a response the Ministry are currently holding public consultation fono’s across the country on the 2017 draft strategy to prevent suicide.  This week Le Va was privileged to have hosted the Ministry’s 10th public consultation fono, with a purpose to gain feedback from the Pasifika community.  

A mix of pasifika community members and service providers gathered together to share thoughts and give feedback on this significant document.  Some of the participant feedback included; ensuring the document had relevant cultural components threaded throughout, that mental health services are supported and well-resourced to enhance their accessibility and appropriate fit for Pasifika, and that a collaborative approach is given priority to strengthen our economy and the broader issues across our society.    

It’s not too late to have your say, click here to contribute your views on this critical document.