Waiting for Help

Waiting lists in the social sector in the Western Bay of Plenty

Delays in obtaining Help in New Zealand with social and personal issues from organisations providing housing and accommodation counselling, special needs education services, assessments for home care; or mental health concerns may result in people being on a waiting list for assistance. A scan of the social housing, mental health and education sectors which often have interconnected needs, reveals shortfalls in capacity for a variety of reasons. These include shortages of trained staff, increased demand because of population growth or an increase in the prevalence of issues such as anxiety and also in the acceptance and seeking help.