An Evaluation of an Impaired Driver Treatment Programme Facilitated by Tūhoe Hauora

Abstract

Driving while impaired is a substantial issue in Aotearoa. It has the potential to result in loss of life and cause significant health and economic strain on society. Recidivist impaired drivers are major contributors to this problem. Countermeasures of impaired driving have previously included liquor licencing, drinking age restrictions, health promotion campaigns and health rehabilitation therapies. The Ministry of Health offer an Impaired Driving therapy throughout Aotearoa as countermeasure to this issue. The programme is administered through the funder-contract system. Participation is compulsory for those mandated by court order. This study evaluates an Impaired Driver programme facilitated by Tūhoe Hauora; a kaupapa Māori mental health and addiction provider based in Taneatua, Eastern Bay of Plenty. The course is delivered once weekly over a period of ten weeks to a group of twelve or less recidivist impaired drivers or first time offenders who were convicted of driving with excessive levels of breath alcohol. The evaluation draws from a community psychology paradigm in exploration of the lived experiences of programme participants, in the context of course 2 of the 2014 Tūhoe Hauora Impaired Driving course. The experiences of five individuals were explored using in-depth face to face interviews and presented using a case-by-case approach. Participant observation, document review, evaluation visits and participant surveys were used as supplement methods of inquiry. The findings illustrated that Tūhoe Hauora met contract requirements by addressing impaired driving recidivism to date of interview. The evaluation also found the course actualising the mission of Tūhoe Hauora which was to address the holistic well-being of programme participants. The research did present areas in the programme that could be improved particularly pertaining to the referral process and a need for agency collaboration. Recommendations were formulated in attempt to address the programme gaps and discussion is offered in addressing the multi-layered oppression that was experienced throughout the evaluation process by both Tūhoe Hauora and the evaluation participants.