An overview of Maori whanau experiences of XXXX Centre

This evaluation sought to answer the question ‘How does a centre-based early intervention service support families who identify as Māori?’ Through interviews with ten whānau, it has been established that the Centre does this by offering a holistic service where the needs of both the child and their whānau are met through a multi-disciplinary team approach. The Centre is very welcoming and friendly and all early intervention specialists are committed to working together in getting to know the child and their whole family and offering interventions and support that meets both the child’s developmental needs and also the families' parenting and emotional needs. The approach between the Centre and the family is experienced as a genuine partnership and the Centre’s efforts at providing a bi-cultural environment are appreciated. This can be defined as, what the Ministry of Education (2013, pg 18) terms, a ‘productive partnership’. One of the unique benefits of this centre-based service is the opportunity for families to meet other families in similar situations and this support is highly valued and needs to be encouraged. The strong leadership provided by the Centre Director is seen as pivotal in the provision of this highly recommended service and the main recommendation is to establish the best way to encourage more Māori families to access the Centre. Some suggestions put forward are relationship building and education with more health professionals working with vulnerable children, and utilising Māori networks where possible