The Children and Young People’s Health and Disability Collective, which Canteen is a part of, is a group of seven charities that work at the coalface providing daily support to tamariki and rangatahi experiencing health issues and to their whānau and families.
The Collective is greatly concerned that the specific and unique needs of tamariki or rangatahi are not prioritised in the 2021 Health and Disability System review. As a result, we have developed a report that specifically addresses the health and disability needs of tamariki and rangatahi.
The Children and Young People’s Health and Disability Collective Report
The report has four very clear calls to action:
One: The Collective is calling for the development of a comprehensive National Health and Disability Strategy for tamariki and rangatahi that outlines priorities and drives a coordinated effort across the health system.
Two: The Collective has identified four key pillars that are critical to improving health outcomes for tamariki and rangatahi. These must be addressed in the National Health and Disability Strategy for tamariki and rangatahi.
Three: The Collective is calling for a commitment to a fully-funded model to support the design and implementation of the National Health and Disability Strategy for tamariki and rangatahi.
Four: As a group at the coalface providing daily support to tamariki and rangatahi experiencing health issues and to their whānau and families, the Collective wants a seat at the table to be involved with the collaborative development of the National Health and Disability Strategy.
It is an important time for the youth health sector as it pushes hard to get this extremely critical issue onto the political and public agenda. Based on the Collective’s combined experience walking alongside tamariki, rangatahi, and their families and whānau, we are committed to being centrally involved in the current reformation of the public health system to ensure tamariki and rangatahi, who are this country’s future, are prioritised.
We value your ongoing support of Canteen and welcome any assistance you can provide to spread this important message far and wide to your network.
