Whānau ora navigators : valuing indigenous knowledge to promote culturally safe responsive practice that enhances the health and wellbeing of whānau, hapū and iwi : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Master of Social Work at Massey University, Manawatū, Aotearoa, New Zealand
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Date
2021
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Massey University
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Abstract
This research examines the Whānau Ora framework, in particular how it values and utilises indigenous knowledge to promote culturally safe and responsive practice that effectively enhances the health and wellbeing of whānau. The study conducted for this thesis highlights the various ways in which the Whānau Ora model and approach is of benefit to all New Zealanders. Particular attention is paid to the viewpoint of tane and wahine who work as Whānau Ora navigators. This research acknowledges that while Whānau Ora practices are closely linked to tradition, its policy and ways of practicing continue to evolve with new research and a growing body of literature. There have been significant changes over the past nine years in Aotearoa with the growth of Whānau Ora approach in health and social services. This approach has helped Māori services to assist whānau with their aspirations. More importantly, it reflects a whānau centred approach that is whānau led with Whānau Ora navigators guiding the process.
This research utilised Kaupapa Māori theory and qualitative research to interview eight Whānau Ora navigators. All participants had at least two years’ experience working as Whānau Ora navigators with a Māori health and social service provider in the Lower North Island of Aotearoa New Zealand. The researcher undertook kanohi ki te kanohi (face-to-face) semi-structured interviews and used thematic analysis to identify key themes.
The purpose of the research was to explore Whānau Ora navigator’s worldviews and practice when working with whānau Māori. This research identifies the roles and responsibilities of Whānau Ora navigators via a Kaupapa Māori approach and highlights the benefits and challenges of a Whānau Ora framework that promotes a culturally safe and responsive practice.
A key finding from this research revealed the benefits for Whānau Ora navigators when utilising a Whānau Ora framework, which worked to enhance and strengthen whānau wellbeing. It is also important to note that the Whānau Ora navigator’s way of practicing ensures a whānau led process that is driven by whānau who are working towards making decisions that benefit their whole whānau. Furthermore, Whānau Ora rejects deficit models of practice, as well as notions that promote a “one size fits all’ approach. Rather, it embraces ideals that look at all areas of whānau wellbeing.
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451126 Ngā mahi tauwhiro me te tika pāpori o te Māori (Māori social work and social justice)