Missing middle

Media Release  

An attempt to service the “Missing Middle” reported in a recent Herald editorial is underway in the capital. 

Whakamātūtū offers a six-week therapeutic recovery-oriented programme for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD and various forms of mental distress, has yet to receive health funding. 

The programme was opened by Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey in March and is based on similar schemes in Germany. 

Whakamātūtū acting director Teresa Wall (Te Rarawa, Te Aupōuri) says that filling this gap in care is essential, though they have found challenges in providing a service for those who have been constantly overlooked. 

Wall says that they have made good inroads in letting potential participants and referrers know about the programme. 

“There has been lots of positive feedback from those who have completed the programme, but there is the major problem of getting access for those in need.” 

Presently the programme is accessed by a mixture of ACC sensitive claims clients, self-funded participants and philanthropic donations. MSD did part fund some clients as part of a pilot scheme.  

“This gap in care has been neglected for many years and by successive governments, it is our hope that the minister of health and the minister of mental health will support these people by funding this programme.” 

Wall says the course caters to those in the Wellington region but could be rolled out into other regions.