The government is increasing support for mental health services by allocating additional funding through the Mental Health Innovation Fund, enabling four organisations to expand their programs. For the second round of the fund, the matched funding threshold was lowered from $250,000 to $100,000, making it easier for organisations to access support. The initiative is backed by $10 million over two years to assist non-government organisations and community providers in delivering mental health services.
Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey highlighted that the funding aims not only to treat mental health issues but also to prevent them, improve early access to support, and ensure communities and workplaces can receive help when needed. He emphasised that grassroots organisations play a crucial role in increasing access to mental health services.
Among the new recipients, Hearts and Minds will expand early intervention services in Auckland’s Waitematā, while Christchurch’s The Loft will develop a new digital service to support an additional 200 people. MATES in Construction, previously funded in the first round, will extend services to 3,000 more construction workers across 19 regions. Asian Family Services will use the funding to support mental health and addiction practitioners in Auckland and Wellington and to maintain its nationwide telehealth service.
Earlier recipients of the second round include Barnardos, Netsafe, the Graeme Dingle Foundation, Ki Tua o Matariki, and Whānau Āwhina Plunket. First-round funding went to MATES in Construction, The Mental Health Foundation, YouthLine, Wellington City Mission, Rotorua Youth One Stop Shop, and the Sir John Kirwan Foundation. Organisations seeking funding must match the amount requested, and the lowered threshold addresses previous criticism of the $250,000 limit.
