$4m to assist Rainbow wellbeing

AUCKLAND: The Government is providing $4 million to services that provide mental health support to young members of New Zealand’s Rainbow community.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern made the announcement before her appearance at the Big Gay Out at Auckland’s Coyle Park yesterday afternoon.

‘‘The Government is committed to improving mental health outcomes for children and young people in our Rainbow communities,’’ Ms Ardern said.

‘‘Young people in the Rainbow community are at greater risk of being discriminated against, bullied and harassed. As a result, they have poorer physical and mental health and addiction outcomes and are at greater risk of suicide. We need to change that.’’

Most of the money — $3.2 million — will be used to expand mental wellbeing services focusing on young Rainbow New Zealanders.

The rest will top up the Rainbow Wellbeing Legacy Fund, established as an acknowledgement of those New Zealanders who were convicted for homosexual acts before the law was changed in 1986.

The total package will be spread over four years. — The New Zealand Herald