Launched in June, the nib foundation’s new Health Smart Grants programme provided a total of over $128,000 in funding to Clearhead, the University of Otago and Youthline.
“Chronic health conditions account for 80% of all deaths in New Zealand, yet we know over a third of these are caused by modifiable risks that can be reduced or avoided,” said Amy Tribe, nib foundation executive officer. “Through these partnerships, we aim to help Kiwis better understand these risks and the positive lifestyle changes they can make every day to live longer and healthier lives.”
The three charities will use various digital platforms to bring their programmes and educational campaigns to Kiwi youth and young adults. Topics include mental health and wellbeing, as well as preventing harmful alcohol consumption.
Tribe said that the funding will support Clearhead in developing a digital tool to help young adults find their purpose in life. This is in response to data from Clearhead which found that loneliness and a lack of purpose are the two leading causes of psychological distress among young people.
The University of Otago will use the funding to build on the findings of their Youth2000 Series Survey and address harmful drinking in young people through a series of evidence-based webinars and online fact sheets to influence community-level action.
“Another significant contributor to chronic disease and health loss in New Zealand is alcohol and harmful drinking, and these risky drinking behaviours often begin early on in high school,” Tribe said. “That’s why we’re supporting the University of Otago to develop these resources that we hope will influence policymakers, programme developers, and those who work with young people to better educate the community on alcohol harm and reduce long-term health impacts.”
