Background / Rationale: In 2015, Aotearoa New Zealand launched a national initiative to address the psychological and social needs of people with cancer and their whānau, grounded in a commitment to equity and culturally responsive care. This initiative was informed by national cancer control strategies and policy directives that recognised the need for consistent, accessible supportive care across the motu.
Method: The Cancer Psychological and Social Support Service (CPSSS) was established through a collaborative, cross-sector approach involving Te Aho o te Kahu (Cancer Control Agency), Central Government (Manatū Hauora / Ministry of Health), and funders (Health NZ / Te Whatu Ora). National leadership was provided by a group of psychologists and social workers who co-designed a model of care that balanced standardisation with local responsiveness. Implementation varied across regions, reflecting differences in health system structures, community needs, and existing services. Early efforts focused on building relationships, establishing shared values, and embedding culturally grounded practices.
Implications for Practice: The early development phase laid the foundation for a nationally cohesive yet locally adaptable service. It demonstrated the importance of leadership from within the psycho-social workforce, and the value of co-design with Māori and other priority populations. These formative years shaped how supportive care is understood and delivered in New Zealand today.
Discussion: This presentation reflects on the inception of the CPSSS, highlighting the policy environment, strategic decisions, and collaborative processes that enabled its establishment. It explores the challenges of implementing a national model in a diverse health landscape and celebrates the groundwork laid by early leaders. These insights offer valuable lessons for future national health initiatives seeking to embed equity and person-centred care from the outset.