November 2009

In September 2009 a publication titled "Doing Difficult Things Differently", telling the story of the South East and City Primary Health Organisation, was launched at an event in Newtown, Wellington. Inspiring Communities was delighted to be a part of both facilitating the book, and attending the launch event.

As an example of true community-led development, this quote from a CEO says it all: "We are so community-driven that I know, if the community didn't want me in this role, I wouldn't be here!"

These words were said with humour, humility and total sincerity by Justine Thorpe, Chief Executive of SECPHO (South East and Central Primary Health Ordganisation) at the launch in September of a unique publication telling the SECPHO story. Doing Difficult Things Differently: the community development approach of South East and City Primary Health Organisation follows the story of SECPHO's development since its formation as a Charitable Trust in 2003.

SEPCHO is committed to providing accessible, affordable primary health care services to its populations and aims to reduce health inequalities and overcome barriers to accessing health services for Maori, Pacific, Refugee and low income peoples in its area. The non-profit PHO comprises 36 member organisations ranging from health centres and pharmacies to a vast array of social service and community support groups serving groups of different ages, ethnicities, backgrounds and those living with physical and other challenges.

Doing Difficult Things Differently is primarily a compilation of interviews with staff of SECPHO or the member organisations, and their clients in the community. Its creation was the result of collaboration between SECPHO, The Families Commission and Inspiring Communities, and was written by Frances Hancock and David Epston.

• the importance of seeing individuals, whanau and communities through eyes of respect and working to grow relationships of trust
• being warm and approachable and using language that people can understand
• looking for leadership from within communities and supporting the role of community messengers
• inviting community participation and ownership through respectful engagement
• embracing challenges by pursuing a strategic approach

The event to launch the book was well attended, with many of SECPHO's staff, families and member organisations present, along with local MP Annette King and several senior Families Commission staff, notably Families Commissioner Gregory Fortuin who delivered a passionate address endorsing SECPHO's approach of respect, value and care of its community.

The formalities concluded with a group of children releasing multi-coloured balloons into the Newtown sky, representing the diversity in SECPHO's community population and the importance of many peoples and organisations journeying together in one direction. This spirit was reflected throughout the event including in the following shared meal, provided by local groups including the Somali, Assyrian, Pacific and Indian communities.

SECPHO, the book telling its story, and the launch event were a shining example of unity in diversity, of which all involved could be proud. A copy of Doing Difficult Things Differently: The community development approach of South East and City Primary Health Organisation can be obtained by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .