“The MoC outlines how healthcare services are organised and delivered in a particular setting,” explains Derek Challenor, Operations Manager of Acute Mental Health Inpatient, After Hours, District and Hospital Services.
"This MoC was used to inform facility design of the new acute inpatient unit being built in the Hutt Valley and the changes we’re making now will help ensure a smooth transition when it is opened.”
Since starting his current role in 2024, Derek and his team have begun to implement iterative improvements in line with the MoC’s key areas, such as cultural safety, community relationships, and workforce development.
“For example, we’re excited to be welcoming a Māori Equity Lead, a new role for the acute sector. They will be instrumental in supporting implementation of the MoC.”
Implementation of the Safewards programme is another key area identified in the MoC. This is an improvement project around tāngata whaiora experience in inpatient units, with areas of focus such as use of positive language. This is an exciting opportunity for units to work together to advance this mahi across the acute units.
As implementation work has moved ahead, the units have become more aligned, with staff able to share knowledge and resources. This supports the Mental Health & Addiction Change Programme’s vision of integrated care for people across the district, and offers more equitable care across our localities.
“For example, the pilot to integrate Peer Support Workers into multidisciplinary teams has been extended to Te Whare Ahuru,” says Derek. “This offers tāngata whaiora in the Hutt Valley equitable access to trained, experienced Peer Support Workers.”
As part of this work the team leaders are working together to improve communication and reduce duplication of work between the units. Previously, while both units were working to reduce use of seclusion and restraints, different frameworks were being used. The two were consolidated so that knowledge and learning is shared between units and time is used more efficiently.
While positive developments are being observed, implementation of the MoC is still in its early days, and much more is to come.
