Case Studies, Pacific
The Fono: a health promotion model with a Pacific focus
Health Promotion Forum works with organisations at all levels of health promotion and social development. It is forging close working relationships with leaders in the field, to strengthen the health promotion movement.
The Fono is working to address health and inequality in communities across Auckland and Northland. Jo Lawrence-King talked to its Chief Executive Tevita Funaki; who recently joined HPF’s board.
The connection between HPF and The Fono is clear. HPF’s own definition of the profession emphasises its focus on “empowering people and communities to take control of their health and wellbeing.”
“At the Fono we value the significant importance of Health Promotion,” agrees Tevita. “We work closely with families to address their health needs. We provide health education and social support; ensuring both economic and social needs are addressed. We work with churches to develop their health activities to support a healthy environment both for their homes and churches.”
The Fono: a model of Pacific health promotion
The Fono is a health service committed to reducing health inequalities in the communities in which it operates. It finds innovative ways to deliver culturally appropriate services across all its locations.
The Fono works to foster well, safe, vibrant communities and has a commitment to meeting the cultural needs of the people in these communities. These include its original area of West Auckland (based in Henderson) as well as:
- Central Auckland (the CBD)
- South Auckland (Manurewa)
- West Central Auckland (Blockhouse Bay)
- Northland (Kaikohe)
