New service launches to support Māori
Kaupapa Māori Navigation Service aims to improve the experiences of Māori and their whānau when they access our services and support.
The new service was launched last month and is an extension of our existing navigation service, which provides free and independent advice through the claims process and helps kiritaki (clients) connect to appropriate support within ACC.
The service has been introduced to provide advice in a culturally appropriate way for kiritaki through an easily accessible, independent Māori provider.
It aligns with ACC’s vision of creating greater access, equity and hauora outcomes for Māori kiritaki and whānau.
The service will initially be rolled out in five North Island regions: Te Tai Tokerau (Northland), Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland), Waikato/Hauraki, Te Moana a Toi (Bay of Plenty) and Tairāwhiti (Gisborne).
ACC is also committed to working with other local Kaupapa Māori providers to extend the service across the motu.
Meeting the needs of Māori
ACC’s Deputy Chief Executive for Service Delivery, Amanda Malu, says ACC has contracted Kaupapa Māori providers that will deliver a uniquely tailored service to meet the needs of the Māori community in each region.
“ACC sought Māori organisations to co-develop and deliver a Kaupapa Māori Navigation Service,” she says.
“Thirteen providers have been engaged so far, and all were chosen for their cultural competency, connection to their communities and organisational alignment to this mahi through provision of other health-related services.
“These providers are already doing amazing work within their communities to help clients navigate the claims process and we’re proud to be supporting them in the role they play.”
ACC’s current navigation service is delivered by two mainstream providers – the Work Injury Advocacy Service (WIAS) and Way Finders.
Established in 2019, its purpose is to give the public free, independent advice or guidance if they find the ACC system difficult to navigate.
Moving towards equity
Data shows Māori make up 17 per cent of New Zealand’s population, yet last year accounted for just 12 per cent of claims.
“This inequitable situation doesn’t sit right with us – and we’re committed to changing it,” Amanda says.
Clients using ACC’s navigation services are often considered to be in vulnerable situations and frequently have other challenges – such as health, family and economic complexities – that exacerbate the impact of their injury.
Amanda says ACC will support the new providers with training and technical help.
More information
More information on ACC’s navigation services can be found on the ACC website.
