Purpose of the framework

In 2023, Te Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand commissioned the development of a comprehensive guiding peer support framework to address gambling harm. The purpose of this mahi is to build foundations for a gambling harm peer workforce, to embed Lived Experience and cultural leadership, and to reduce stigma and build national understanding of the impacts of gambling harm.

How the framework was co-designed

The framework is intended to be integrated into support service models of treatment currently within gambling harm services, so we conducted nationwide co-design workshops with peer support workers, tangata whaiora | those with Lived Experience of gambling harm, their whānau, and Gambling Harm Prevention and Minimisation services. We emphasised cultural input, including Māori, Pacific, and Asian perspectives to ensure the framework honours the use of culturally appropriate and non-stigmatising language and practices.

Why this mahi matters

This mahi was commissioned as there is very little existing structure for peer support in gambling harm, an emerging workforce that needs support, clarity, and belonging. This framework provides services with guidance and cultural alignment, and tangata whaiora | Lived Experience and their whānau with grounded practices and a safe way to share their voices.

Intended outcomes and next steps

Part of this mahi has seen the establishment of a Community of Practice that meets online monthly to share experiences, strategies, and insights, explore challenges and opportunities, deepen understanding of how services can better integrate and support peer support workers, and build a network and space for peer support.

We’re developing an easy-to-use guide for the framework and a Discovery Space has been launched for learning and engagement. We’d love your feedback on the framework and any of the peer support in gambling harm mahi. Please take a look at the framework and use the form below for your comments.