Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey has announced a new strategy and funding to combat eating disorders. Photo: RNZ / Mark Papalii
The government has refreshed its strategic approach to eating disorders and promised to invest more money in support services.
The coalition will spend an extra $4 million on services each year, bringing its annual contribution to more than $23 million.
The new funding would be spent on caring for those with eating disorders, supporting their families and early intervention work.
Funding package details:
- Roll out peer support to all regional eating disorder services
- Create community-based support for families and carers
- Increase the capacity of specialist eating disorder services
- Expand prevention and early intervention support
Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey's announcement marks Body Image and Eating Disorder Awareness Week.
Doocey said the fresh strategy and boost in funding - the biggest in more than 16 years - would support people navigating and battling eating disorders.
"Support for eating disorders is best provided using a full continuum of care for eating disorders across prevention, primary health care, early intervention and community services, along with specialist and inpatient services for people with the highest needs.
"The changes today bring about meaningful changes that will ensure the strategy remains fit for purpose and continues to meet the needs of our communities."
He said he was making good progress on the coalition's mental health plan and it was starting to work.
"We're turning the corner on reducing wait times and increasing the mental health workforce.
"Recent data shows the frontline Health NZ mental health workforce has grown around 10 percent since we came into government, and over 80 percent of people are being seen within three weeks for specialist services.
"Whether it's you, your child, a friend, or a family member, reaching out for support, this government is committed to ensuring support is there."
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