Your views about Whaikaha's new rules re how disability funding can be used

* 1. Today Whaikaha the Ministry for Disabled People announced changes to the system. There are new rules about what disability support funding can be used for with Individualised Funding, Enhanced Individualised Funding, Choice in Community Living, Personal Budgets, or Carer Support. The new rules take effect today. We encourage disabled people and family carers to take the time to read about these changes.

https://www.whaikaha.govt.nz/news-and-events/news/whaikaha-purchasing-rules-and-equipment-and-modification-services-ems-update

We suggest you click on the links to the new purchasing rules and guidelines, and the Carer Support webpage (if you receive Carer Support for respite).

We have asked Whaikaha for more clarity and detail about some of the changes. We encourage you to stay informed via our Facebook page: facebook.com/carersnz

Above all we want to know what you think - what will the changes mean for you and your family?

We have spoken to Whaikaha about the importance of continued flexibility for family carers in how respite funding can be used, for example. Carer Support is the only respite support most family carers receive. In the past many could not use their allocations due to inflexible rules. It's important family carers have options for wellbeing breaks for their mental and physical health.

After reviewing the changes in the links above, please tell us what they mean for you and your family. We will use your feedback for a report to share with our community and the Government. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

Note: comments may be anonymised and shared to give government and our community feedback, we appreciate adding your voice to make this possible. Leave your contact details if you want to receive our report based on everyone's feedback in the next few weeks.