As part of the Peers in Emergency Department (ED) initiative, Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is seeking providers that will provide experienced peer support specialists that will work alongside clinicians to ensure a holistic and comprehensive approach that address the needs of people who present to Emergency Department (EDs) with mental health and addiction needs.

This Request for Proposal (RFP) relates to the procurement of Peer Support Services within the Emergency Department at Tauranga Hospital. The funded service through this RFP will provide peer support staff within the Emergency Department, with a focus on delivering enhanced support to tāngata whaiora and their whānau during times of acute distress. This service must be peer-led and firmly rooted in the values and principles of peer support. Peer support is not merely a job title—it is a philosophy and a deliberate practice. It involves individuals with lived experience of mental distress and/or addiction offering meaningful support to others walking a similar path.

This is an exciting opportunity for your service to make a meaningful impact by supporting people in mental distress through the Peers in ED initiative. The service will lead the delivery of evidence-informed, peer-led support for individuals presenting to the Emergency Department, ensuring that the support provided is compassionate, culturally appropriate, and reflective of the needs of the community. Success will depend on strong collaboration with local stakeholders, inter-sectoral agencies, whānau, hapū, and iwi to provide integrated, person-centred care at a critical point of need.