$24 Million Investment in Gumboot Friday to Boost Mental Health Services

This initiative will receive $24 million over four years from Budget 2024 to provide free mental health counselling services to youth aged 5 to 25.

The New Zealand Government has committed to significantly enhancing mental health support for young people through funding the Gumboot Friday initiative, as announced by Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters and Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey. This initiative will receive $24 million over four years from Budget 2024 to provide free mental health counselling services to youth aged 5 to 25.

Key aspects of the announcement include:

Funding Allocation: The $24 million will be used to contract the I Am Hope Foundation, enabling the Gumboot Friday initiative to offer free mental health counselling to over 15,000 young New Zealanders annually.

Completion of Coalition Commitment: This funding fulfills a promise made under the National-New Zealand First coalition agreement, highlighting the Government's dedication to addressing mental health issues among young people.

Addressing Mental Health Concerns: Recognizing the severity of mental health challenges faced by young New Zealanders, this funding aims to provide timely support, preventing escalation to more severe conditions.

Role of Prevention and Early Intervention: Minister Doocey emphasized the importance of early intervention in mental health care. Gumboot Friday will help youth with mild to moderate mental health needs access counselling services promptly, also benefiting those awaiting specialist services.

Collaboration with I Am Hope Foundation: Partnering with I Am Hope, a well-established organization, underscores the Government's strategy of leveraging community-based initiatives to meet mental health needs effectively.

Economic and Social Benefits: Research indicates a high return on investment for funding I Am Hope, with every $1 spent yielding a $5.70 social return. This economic justification supports the broader impact of the initiative on the health system and societal well-being.

The Government's investment in the Gumboot Friday initiative is part of a broader effort to improve mental health services, support the mental health workforce, and emphasize preventive care. By enhancing access to mental health resources, the initiative aims to equip young New Zealanders with the tools they need to secure a brighter future.