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Page URL: https://practice.orangatamariki.govt.nz/practice-approach/practice-standards/use-professional-supervision/kaimahi-ora/
Printed: 29/03/2024
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Last updated: 01/04/2019

Kaimahi ora

We focus on supporting our own and others’ wellbeing.

Upcoming changes for this guidance

This content will be strengthened so it more completely reflects our commitment to practice framed by te Tiriti o Waitangi, based on a mana-enhancing paradigm for practice, and drawing from ​Te Ao Māori principles of oranga to support mana tamaiti, whakapapa and whanaungatanga. We each need to consider how we can apply these principles to our practice when reading this guidance. The following resources provide support:
Practice for working effectively with Māori
Our practice approach

Our focus

We remember to look after ourselves as part of our practice. We don’t lose sight of self-care, stress management and addressing our own needs through regular supervision.

It is important to work together as teams to build a positive culture of team support and we put in place the right processes so we can all get additional support if and when it is needed.

It is also important to acknowledge the work people do and recognise the strengths and successes we each bring to our work as practitioners.

We ensure we are clear of our roles and we stay focused on working within these. We also draw on the expertise of others where we may need it for guidance or support in the work we are doing.

We acknowledge the importance of supervision as a process to support kaimahi ora (wellbeing) and that each person has a cultural context to consider in this process.

Quality practice

Quality practice includes:

  • being aware when you need support and taking steps to receive it
  • participating in regular supervision
  • debriefing regularly with supervisors and colleagues
  • knowing your limits and leaving work behind at the end of the day
  • using support systems like EAP or other tools to help manage stress
  • knowing how to receive assistance through Critical Incident and Stress Management (CISM)
  • maintaining a healthy lifestyle in terms of rest, taking regular leave, exercise and healthy eating
  • engaging in cultural activities and personal interests that help to revive, recharge and support personal development.

Reflecting on practice

  • How am I using supervision to reflect on my practice in self-care and managing pressure?
  • Are there conversations I need to have with others to help manage the pressure and stresses of particular practice challenges?
  • What preventative steps am I taking to manage my wellbeing?
  • How am I supporting and being supported by colleagues? (for example Pacific and Māori staff networks)
  • What other organisational tools or activities could I use to help maintain my wellbeing?