Workforce Reference Group focuses on staff retention and succession planning

At our recent Workforce Reference Group meeting, the focus was on exploring innovative strategies for recruiting, retraining staff, and attracting new talent to the sector. This Workforce Reference Group, which includes representatives from various parts of the sector, meets quarterly alongside other workforce centers to exchange insights and address workforce challenges.

We had some insightful presentations focused on succession planning and staff retention. One was from Tūhoe Hauora, a rural NGO kaupapa Māori service in the Tūhoe region, offering specialised health and social services. Their impressive facilities include recording and podcast studios, a gym, and more. Tūhoe Hauora emphasizes investing in their kaimahi, who are rooted in tikanga, connected through whakapapa, and highly respected within their communities. They prioritize internal recruitment by developing staff through an internal learning hub, creating clear professional pathways for growth within the organization.

The second presentation was by Grace Houghton, a Stage 1 Psychiatry Registrar from Purehurehu. She has built a community through a film club initiative that connects medical students interested in psychiatry with registrars and consultants. The group watches films loosely related to psychiatry, followed by a guided discussion. Grace has successfully created a space for connection and learning.