It follows reports an in-patient mental health unit at Christchurch's Hillmorton Hospital may close its doors as it has about half the workers needed. Tupuna provides 24 hour care and support for people with mental health issues that require a longer stay in hospital than what its acute inpatient unit can provide. "And now we're learning that we've got a potential closure of much needed mental health beds in Canterbury. Doocey said the more existing mental health staff were stretched, the likelier they would burnout. "When I talk to people with mental health, it becomes apparent pretty quickly, that the biggest obstacle for New Zealanders getting timely access to mental health care is lack of workforce.
