This conceptual model was given to me by the Maori health workers of the Northlands of the North Island of New Zealand during a visit to New Zealand about 15 years ago. It is an excellent reminder of the structures which go to make up our human nature including the importance of belonging. Unless we are embedded in a supportive matrix/reference group, we are nothing and can achieve little.
VOICE means having an effective say in your own operating environments and lives.
CHOICE is obvious and adds up to the freedom as a family and/or community group to choose between alternatives based on adequate information.
SAFE PROSPECT is vital. This idea means that within the limits of Fate and naturalistic happenings and disasters that we must have a right to anticipate that our social, our operating environment and the rules which govern our behaviour and our livelihoods will be predictably similar tomorrow as compared to today. We are not to be subject to arbitrary changes of the rules or shifting of the goalposts.
Dr Ian Curtis is a senior psychiatrist in full-time practice in Brisbane. Dr Ian Curtis is also a public speaker with over 30 years experience. Dr Ian Curtis as been involved in preparing and presenting workshops and lectures for Queensland Health, the Queensland Police Service, the University of Queensland Medical School, and Brisbane Churches. He has also lectured at international venues in China, India, and the USA.