Background

On the 2nd May 2007 ACC and Te Matarau Ltd signed a relationship agreement The agreement is part of ACC's ongoing aim to ensure that Maori communities are taking full advantage of the ACC scheme.

Te Matarau Ltd is a national collective of Maori Development Organisations and Maori Health Provider Network. Te Matarau Ltd works across a number of District Health Boards and also works closely with the Ministry of Health in efforts to increase the quality of healthcare for Maori.

ACC Director, Maori and Community Relations Hemi Toia, says"ACC is very pleased to have formed this connection with Te Matarau. Our shared values in addressing healthcare issues within the Maori community create a very strong foundation for this relationship."

"Our research shows that Maori don't use the support that's available from ACC nearly enough. By working with Iwi organisations with an existing role in the community we can make sure that Maori know what they are able to get when they're hurt and therefore be able to recover quickly and effectively."

Mr Toia says that the exchange of information of a strategic nature is central to the relationship. "Through a number of hui across the country we have found out from the people themselves what the key issues are. There are certain barriers to Maori when accessing healthcare and we're working to break those down, whether they be around perceived cost or concerns with the appropriateness of treatment."

As a further measure to assist Maori using ACC services, and provide a trusted human face in Maori communities, ACC will assist with the appointment of Kaiawhina positions to organisations like Te Matarau. They will be responsible for helping Maori with injuries find the services they need from ACC, as well as raising awareness about ACC in

the community.

"These initiatives are all part of ACC 's new strategic direction, focusing on people not processes, and ensuring that all New Zealanders know how to get help from ACC," says Mr Toia.

Poutiri Trust is proud to be providing this service in Tauranga.

Current geographical area is Maketu to Katikati out to lower Kaimai.