United Future
Since: Aug 2007
Posts: 314

BLOG: Disability Issues Release

Posted in Discussion Forum at 06:15AM, 19 Apr 2008 ∞ Permalink

This week the Social Services Select Committee put the finishing touches to the report on our inquiry into Disability Services in NZ. This inquiry has been a complete eye-opener because while NZ has an award-winning Disability Strategy Document that articulates in a progressive way how the government will provide disability support for those with impairment, we still have a long way to go if this is to be properly implemented.

The challenges put to the committee by submitters to this inquiry sent me scurrying to see how UnitedFuture’s policy for this important sector measured up. It didn’t! Well intentioned but inadequate!

Motivated by the courageous stories I have heard from those who live with disability either personally or in their family context I have set about building my own personal network within the sector to learn first hand where we should be heading and this week we’ve launched a consultative discussion document seeking direct feedback from those with impairment, their families, caregivers, and service providers.
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Quentin Todd
Since: Nov 2007
Posts: 68

Posted at 06:15AM, 19 Apr 2008 ∞ Permalink

Judy,

This is an important policy issue. Great to see you have taken up the challenge to correct it's alignment.

I have thought of two issues: one has to do with funding "criteria". It has become a dirty word this "criteria" word.
For example I need new hearing aids - $10,000 for two. I can get $5000 from Disable but have to find the other $5000. It would be better if I got $10,000 based on the fact I am deaf and need new hearing aids. I can get the $5000 based on the fact I am "studying at a approved education provider"- not the fact that i am 76% deaf and the current have nearly expired their lifespan.

I am on the Invalids Benefit for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in what is taking forever to get rid of. I work 15 hours a week under a 50% funded contract through Workbridge, to work with a not-for-profit organization.This is issue two: the contract runs out every six months and I have to "re-apply" for funding. Why only 50% funding and not 100%? Especially given that the not-for-profit has to find the money as well??

I have another concern and Respite Care is on the top of the list. Whether one is caring for a disabled person or elderly- their is a lack of good Respite Care partly because of the very shortage of trained, patient and caring nurses.Houses for Respite Care have been a nursing home with too many people and a huge shortage of per resident care. For example in a typical resthome one nurse per resident-but in most cases they need two nurses.

I will fill out the discussion paper and mail it to you, as best I know how.

Keep up the good work. Be strong and brave

Quentin

mcinnes
Since: Apr 2008
Posts: 53

Posted at 09:30PM, 23 Apr 2008 ∞ Permalink

All power to you Mrs Turner. Those with disabilities, I understand that may affect as many as 1 in 5 individuals, well at least 1 in 5 families, deserve the best of service from government to lighten their loads, relieve their stress where possible but more importantly to be heard and have what they understand & know to be beneficial to their lives and situations added for their good. I look forward to the outcomes of this disscusion paper

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