A bigger presence in Upper Hutt
We're huge on collaborating with our neighbouring cities, especially Upper Hutt after identifying a limited presence across the whole of the Hutt Valley in the past. The strategic move to introduce a Systems Innovator in Upper Hutt this year will ensure that the health and wellbeing of our local communities continues to be prioritised and supported.
Since starting in July 2023, Systems Innovator Vaughan has been out and about in Te Awa Kairangi actively engaging in community-led health initiatives including the following:
Reinforcing the UHCC policy on smoke free environments – after revising the Upper Hutt City Council Smokefree and Vapefree Policy, Vaughan has been working alongside HFHV’s Smokefree Environments Systems Innovator and attending smokefree and vapefree regional groups and contributing to strategies that will reduce harm in the Wellington Region. Two projects involved disestablishing an unofficial smokers area close to Council buildings and completing a mapping exercise of tobacco and vape retailers in Upper Hutt.
Establishing links with the Pacific community through the Toso Vata Challenge – led by Pacific Health Services Hutt Valley, the challenge aimed to shine a light on men’s health and encourage Pasifika men to prioritise their health and wellbeing. It also guided Vaughan to explore ways to better connect Upper Hutt City Council with the Pacific Community and build stronger relationships.
Check out the highlights from the Toso Vata celebration event
Wellness day event with Ōrongomai Marae and Gain Health – this involved coordinating the annual wellness day event which encouraged whānau to connect with the several participating health organisations. It was also a networking opportunity for HFHV to link up with other health organisations in Upper Hutt that share the same vision of creating a healthier Aotearoa.
After the first event, the community had access to more health screening and service information and 20 new whānau were successfully registered with a GP service! The event was so successful, that another Wellness Day is tentatively scheduled for April 2024, aligning with flu vaccine season.
Vaughan (pictured right) at the Wellness day event with Ōrongomai Marae and Gain Health
Our focus on creating a healthier Upper Hutt represents and embodies our commitment to impact meaningful change across Te Awa Kairangi and that no community is left behind.