The Settling In initiative was introduced in 2004 in response to the increasing ethnic diversity in New Zealand, and a growing awareness that intervention was required beyond the early settlement period to maximise outcomes for refugees and migrants.
One project undertaken by the initiative has been to give a voice to new migrants in the Albany area through a special report called ‘Settling In - Albany’ - launched on 26 March 2010.
The report provides a snapshot of the issues faced by newcomers to the area and suggests more work is needed to improve the way these residents are welcomed into their new home.
There has been enormous interest in the project, which involved more than 23 focus groups with around 25 different ethnic communities. The work was undertaken by a collaborative working party including community groups, government agencies, the North Shore City Council and Massey University. It was led by Settling In relationship manager Lily Lee, from the Family and Community Services (MSD).
