2021 is proving to be the year of new awards for the Northland Business Excellence Awards with an important additional specialist category for local businesses to enter launching July 1st.
Created and sponsored by Far North trust Te Mana Oranga, the Workplace Diversity and Inclusion Award celebrates Northland businesses who support people with mental health and addictions into employment.
NorthChamber CEO, Steve Smith welcomes this additional category to the Business Excellence Awards. “Mental health and addiction are very real issues in our workplaces and community. It is important and relevant that we spotlight businesses that show strong social responsibility, we can learn from them, emulate them and build a more vital, connected community to live and do business in.”
“Anyone at any time can be affected by mental health and addictions challenges. Establishing this award recognises the businesses actively working to reduce the stigma attached to mental health and addictions, and open opportunities for these people to join the workforce,” said Reg Peterson, CEO at Te Mana Oranga Trust.
“These incredible businesses make a significant impact in their communities when they open their doors to people from all walks of life. We want to celebrate and recognise these businesses and acknowledge the increasing need for support for mental health and addictions in the workplace,” said Reg.
The Northland District Health Board is thrilled to support the establishment of the new Northland Business Excellence Award, they work closely with Te Mana Oranga to deliver a service that helps people with a history of mental health and addiction challenges to successfully transition into meaningful employment.
“Te Mana Oranga does an incredible job brokering employment opportunities for people in the Mid and Far North. What we know is that having meaningful employment reduces the impact of poverty and increases the health and wellbeing of employees, which has a ripple effect outward on whānau and the greater community,” said Ian McKenzie, general manager, Mental Health and Addictions Services, Northland DHB.
If you are a business that offers meaningful training and employment to people that have experienced mental health or addiction challenges you are encouraged to enter this category. Participating in the Northland Business Excellence Awards is free, the new category is just one of seven specialist categories that sit alongside the main awards and there are many opportunities to showcase local business. There is help with the entry process from NorthChamber staff and the Awards business coach.
Visit www.northlandbusinessawards.co.nz or call Rebecca on 09 438477 for more information.
