Well Whaanau - Well Communities. Successful thriving families come in all shapes and sizes but there are some common characteristics that underpin ‘wellness’ in a whaanau.

Perspective and state of mind goes a long way. I have seen several families who place importance on material wealth and assets yet they are not happy as individuals or a family unit. Then I see families who have very little in terms of material wealth yet there is always kai on the table, the kids are loved and happy and every opportunity is a blessing.

You cannot judge wellbeing by any other measure then that which the family have identified as wellness factors. Having a good job and being happy in that workplace is but one measure, being able to support and encourage ones kids to do well at school is another, being connected to ones community and marae or leading a full and active life are all measures any person can identify with.

But take some of the whaanau that I work with and you begin to realise that a well connected community can contribute to lifting wellbeing for a number of people and their whaanau. A young family, who as first time parents want to make a good go of it. While they did not finish school they are adamant that at least one of them will work to support the family and provide a comfortable home to raise a family. Services like Family Start, Whai Maarama, Te Koohao Health in the community could all be important supports alongside trades training/employment organisations and government agencies. The point is that the sooner services in the community act as a ‘one door many services’ entity then we are a long way forward to providing help when it’s needed. I know that several community and non-government agencies have been acting in this way for some time and Government agencies through initiatives like Community Link are taking a similar approach.

Then there are whaanau with multiple issues and needs that require more intensive collaboration and effort. More ‘hands-on’ case management has generally been the response.

I hope that with the new Whaanau Ora model being promoted, that the needs of whaanau at both ends of the spectrum are not compromised by a change in funding for outcomes. One thing is sure, it’s politically more attractive to demonstrate outcomes for those with high needs rather than for those who only need a little bit of help. But I believe that investing in preventative measures ensures wellness as a little help goes a long way!

Ends HonNanaiaMahuta