The Health Minister Andrew Little talks with Kathryn Ryan about the pathway forward for mental health. He is due to release a stock-take into how much of the $1.9 billion for mental health in the 2019 budget has been spent , or allocated. This week he announced a new 10-year plan for mental wellbeing and the establishment of an external oversight group to keep it on track. All this follows the comprehensive inquiry into mental health which resulted in 38 recommendations put to government nearly three years ago.
The Minister has previously expressed frustration with his Ministry over the pace of change. But the new long term pathway for mental wellbeing, known as Kia Manawanui, contains no specific measurable milestones. The Mental Health Foundation has said while it welcomes the initiative, it is concerned it could become a long term 'road to nowhere'.
Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
