Disability support made fairer

A new nationally consistent approach for disabled people, families and carers who use supports funded by Disability Support Services (DSS) rolled out last week.

Minister for Disability Issues Louise Upston said the new assessment and allocation processes would be easier, more consistent and streamlined.

All Needs Assessment Service Coordination organisations (NASCs) and Enabling Good Lives (EGL) sites will use the same approach to assess needs and ensure supports are allocated fairly – no matter where people live.

“After their assessment, people will get a clear plan focused on their needs and explaining the purpose of their funding,” Upston said.

“Support will be available if they need it to help them manage their plan.”

Families and carers can also now be considered as part of the assessment.

In April, people with flexible funding will get budgets to manage and current purchasing rules will be removed (including the March 2024 changes). This will affect around 38,500 people.

For more information, visit www.disabilitysupport.govt.nz