District inspectors provide an important safeguard of the rights of patients being treated under the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992 (the Act). District inspectors assist in improving the quality of service delivery at an individual and systemic level. Deputy district inspectors work the same role as district inspectors, but for a varied term (any length of time, up to three years). Further information on the role of district inspectors can be obtained from the Ministry of Health website (www.health.govt.nz). Refer: Guidelines for District Inspectors Appointed under the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992 (2012).

On behalf of the Minister of Health, who appoints deputies district inspectors, the Ministry of Health seeks applications from four suitably qualified barristers and solicitors within the following areas:

02 deputies district inspectors to Canterbury, Christchurch
01 deputy district inspector to South Canterbury, Timaru
01 deputy district inspector to Southland, Invercargill

All applicants must include a CV with two referees, a copy of your practicing certificate, and evidence of the following:

• legal knowledge and experience
• cultural awareness and responsivity
• mental health knowledge, including knowledge of the Act
• personal attributes such as judgement and common sense
• communication skills
• regional and collegial commitment
• consumer sensitivity

Please note:

• Time commitment should not be more than 30 percent of practice.
• This appointment will run until 30 June 2023.
• After two terms, each district inspector position is subject to a publicly advertised appointments process.

The application closing date is Monday 31 August 2020, 5.00pm. Appointments will commence 1 January 2021.

Applications should be sent to:
Maria Nano, Advisor, Office of the Director of Mental Health and Addiction Services, Ministry of Health, PO Box 5013, Wellington 6145.

If you have any queries, please email Maria to Maria.Nano@health.govt.nz or phone Stephen Enright on (04) 496 2080 at the Ministry of Health.