Christchurch 4U Forum, 8 March 2007
ART OF THE NATTER: The Art Centre was a popular venue - easy to find, picturesque and spacious - to which visitors came to chat and share their thoughts about the many arms of the mental health workforce.
I think Te Pou should run the forums again next year, and advertise more widely, and actively entice/encourage clinicians to attend - particularly those who may think workforce development or research is 'not their thing'. They are the workforce so they will have a good idea about what's needed." - Forum visitor's feedback
Quantity and quality would best describe our Garden City forum. We were warmly hosted by the Arts Centre and the people of Canterbury. The heat was on, with lots of visitors and a temperature of 33!
FEEDBACK:
Asian
Major area for workforce development identified, the challenge being to cater for the diversity of Asian populations. Research is needed into the demographics and composition of the Asian population and what supports are available. Requests for an Asian conference in Christchurch.
NGOs
NGOs identifying a need for increased support to meet funding compliance and reporting requirements. NGOs commenting on feeling like the ambulance at the bottom of the hill, hence, the need for more resources to enable more strategic planning to service delivery. Request for proposal about to go out looking at NGO Workforce Development Project. Support requested for ways in which smaller NGOs can link in a more strategic manner to ensure sustainability but also maintain their individuality. NGO requesting closer relationship with Regional Workforce Development Co-ordinator.
Maternal and Infant Mental Health
Number of requests to support raising awareness and profile of maternal mental health in general.
Alcohol and Other Drugs
Requests for real skills for clinicians to better manage and treat people with both AOD and mental illness. Number of people inquiring about how Matua Raki and Te Pou link, and how does Te Pou link and work with the other workforce centres.
Recovery
Need to increase clinical and support staff's knowledge of recovery principles. Need to incorporate Recovery/Strengths principles in all clinical disciplines training curricula.
General
A number of visitors highlighting the sense of isolation experienced by South Island mental health staff, a feeling of being by-passed, particularly in terms of training and education opportunities. CDHB encouraging Te Pou to promote the use of videoconferencing facilities, even through the website. Number of comments acknowledging Te Pou's visit and appreciation for travelling south.
Page last updated: 8 May 2009