The following is one of a group of principles which recognise the particular needs of children and young people receiving health and disability support services. The principles describe what should be provided when your child or young person receives those services. They are based on expert opinion and a considerable body of literature in New Zealand and overseas and they have been developed after wide consultation. See all the principles listed in Principles: what health and disability services should provide for your child or young person.

 

Culturally safe practice

• the service provider to take account of the language, culture or religion of all families
• health care staff to work holistically and in partnership with families to find out and respect the beliefs of families from minority groups and take these into account when delivering their service.
• a culturally competent health and disability service to be aware of the right to interpreting services
  – be sure that interpreters are booked before your appointment wherever possible
  – children should never be used as interpreters as this can put the child under considerable stress and limit communication
• your health or disability service to provide easy access to the spiritual care of your choice. Kaumatua and chaplain services are usually readily available. You will need to inform your health care provider if your needs are specific and different from those provided
• to be able to have a support person / people present with you 

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