The PATHS Project is an interagency pilot between the Ministry of Social Development, the District Health Board and the NGO and community sectors. The project aims to coordinate the health and community supports needed for clients on the sickness and invalids benefit (SB and IB) so that they may return to work. 
Turning Point Trust employs the PATHS Community Coordinator, focusing on mental health and psychosocial issues. The Coordinator (Andrea Clark) works with the Work and Income PATHS Coordinator and the DHB Health Coordinator. Using intensive case management and a team approach, the aim is to remove the barriers to accessing the necessary health and community supports and , once the barriers are removed, linking the person to an employment agency.
The Western Bay of Plenty was selected as a pilot area focusing particularly on the needs of clients with mental health issues. In November 2008 the PATHS project was awarded the "Excellence in Rehabilitation" at the National Health Innovation Awards. The awards showcased the Bay of Plenty PATHS team.
You can contact the PATHS Community Coordinator on (07) 578 0167 or 027 323 3550 or here.