Source: New Zealand Government
Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey has announced two new appointments to the Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission Board, alongside a new Deputy Chair and two reappointments.
“The Government is focused on delivering faster access to support, more frontline workers, and a better crisis response. It is the Commission’s role to hold the Government to account to ensure we are delivering those results,” Mr Doocey says.
“Dr Barbara Disley, a current board member, has been appointed Deputy Chair for a five-year term. Hayden Wano continues as Chair of the Commission.
“The two new members who have been appointed are Josiah Tualamali’i and Rae Lamb.
“There are also two existing members that have been reappointed who are Professor Sunny Collings and Tuari Potiki.
“Wayne Langford continues his term as a member.
“I want to acknowledge outgoing board members Kevin Hague and Alexander El Amanni for their significant contributions to the Commission during their terms.”
“As leaders in mental health and wellbeing, the Commission’s board members are powerful advocates for ensuring services meet the needs of New Zealanders. It is great to have such strong mental health advocates bringing specialist expertise and diverse perspectives to the table.”
Note to editor:
Hayden Wano has over 40 years’ health sector experience including in the areas of mental health, community services and medical services.
Dr Barbara Disley has been in a number of leadership roles in the mental health sector since the 1990s and has an in-depth understanding of mental health and addiction services.
Josiah Tualamali’i has substantial frontline youth advocacy experience, particularly from a Pacific perspective. He has served on many different groups and Boards for mental health.
Rae Lamb has extensive governance and senior leadership experience and has expert knowledge of health, disability, and aged care services.
Sunny Collings has a background as a researcher and clinician, having practiced as a Consultant Psychiatrist for over 25 years. She is currently the Chief Executive of the Health Quality and Safety Commission.
Tuari Potiki has experience in the Māori health, mental health, education, and justice sectors. He has worked in a number of different roles as a Māori alcohol and drug clinician and tutor before moving into public and non-government leadership roles.
Wayne Langford brings extensive experience as a board member for several organisations supporting mental health – particularly for rural and remote communities.
