KHAG has now formed five key working groups, each dealing with a particular facet of health, with each group seeking to identify the most pressing needs in their sector and to develop ideas and actions on how these can be improved.
Access to Services
Our “compelling case” is top priority for this group but they also have other areas of interest covering the work of all health services in Kāpiti. Over the next year, a programme of support and advocacy for a number of these will take shape.
Mental Health
Mental health services in Kāpiti are spread over numerous agencies and providers and building a picture of what is happening here, the mental health status of Kāpiti residents and what is most critically needed is not proving straight forward.
Working with groups including Kāpiti Youth Support, Statistics New Zealand, Te Whatu Ora and others such as Dementia New Zealand, we are starting to identify just where the gaps are but there is still much to be done before we truly understand the situation and can start to advocate for improvement.
Population Health
Population health covers many areas, from clean drinking water and safe food to responding to pandemics, to our local alcohol and smoking rules. In many cases KCDC already has a role and is providing sound services, but we also see there are areas where the input of our experienced and capable team can add value or provide insights that can make a difference. We are starting to shape up a programme of work in this area and we’ll be able to tell you more soon.
Transport
For too many people getting to Wellington or Lower Hutt for medical services is a nightmare. We are fortunate to have the Kāpiti Carers organisation and the ASK Health Shuttle providing some support, but our Transport group is looking at all options to see if there is any way the situation can be improved. KCDC has heard our concerns and they are also looking to work with the Wellington Regional Council to see what can be done.
Children and Young People
Our Children and Young People’s group has been liaising with organisations dealing with young ones in Kāpiti to build a picture of their current health status. It’s too early yet to make any predictions of what we are likely to find, but it is clear already that childhood illnesses such as asthma, eczema and skin infections are as prevalent in Kapiti as in the rest of New Zealand.