458 days ago

A heart-wrenching glimpse into the reality faced by those using Flexible Funding

Glen from Central Whangarei

This survey offers a heart-wrenching glimpse into the reality faced by those using Flexible Funding—a lifeline that has been too often taken for granted. While the government, insistent on slashing this crucial support, claims that time constraints prevented them from engaging with the disabled community, the truth is starkly different. They didn’t ask, and therefore, they remain oblivious to the clear message conveyed by those directly affected.

The survey paints a poignant picture: 80% of respondents filled it out on behalf of someone else, while 20% shared their own experiences. And the results are nothing short of compelling. A staggering 98% either Agree (8%) or Strongly Agree (90%) that Flexible Funding has profoundly improved their quality of life compared to other alternatives like residential care. The benefits are manifold—Autonomy and Choice, Tailored Support, Improved Quality of Life, Increased Independence, Community Engagement, Respite for Carers, Access to Therapy and Health Services, Educational and Employment Opportunities, Mental Health and Wellbeing, and Financial Relief.

Moreover, 95% either Agree (25%) or Strongly Agree (70%) that their Host (Manawanui) provides an invaluable service, making the use of Flexible Funding straightforward and effective.

Yet, despite these resounding endorsements, the disabled community is being relentlessly battered, and the disconnect between the government and the lived experiences of these individuals is glaring. Disability is not a switch you can turn on and off—it’s a constant, all-encompassing reality. Experts in the field lament that the sector feels like it’s been thrown back to the outdated thinking of the 1990s, if not further. The attitudes of today’s government towards the disabled are reminiscent of the 1970s, echoing the dark days of sheltered workshops.

It’s profoundly disheartening to witness so many people suffering needlessly due to ignorance and indifference. The current trajectory is not just a policy failure—it’s a betrayal of the very people it is meant to support.

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More messages from your neighbours
3 days ago

Poll: Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.

Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔

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Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝
  • 72.9% We work hard, we deserve a break!
    72.9% Complete
  • 16.1% Hmm, maybe?
    16.1% Complete
  • 11% Yes!
    11% Complete
652 votes
2 hours ago

Our charity proudly owns and operates Inclusive World NZ

Glen from Central Whangarei

Children with Disability NZ (CC59148) is excited to share something special with you! 🌟
Our charity proudly owns and operates Inclusive World NZ — a new online space created to celebrate diversity and promote real inclusion for people of all abilities and ages.

By supporting Inclusive World NZ, you’re directly supporting our mahi at Children with Disability NZ, helping us continue empowering disabled children and their whānau across Aotearoa.

On the site, you’ll find inspiring stories, practical resources, and tools designed to help build a more inclusive New Zealand for everyone. 💙

✨ Discover a world where everyone belongs.
inclusiveworld.org.nz...

6 hours ago

Secure your homes over summer

The Team from New Zealand Police

Police are reminding people to keep their homes secure during the summer months.

Inspector Glenda Barnaby, Christchurch Area Prevention manager, says daytime burglaries are just as common as nightime burglaries.
“Burglaries can be committed at any time of the day, and coming into warmer months there is more opportunity for thieves."
"Although a majority of burglaries involve forced entry through windows and doors, we are starting to see more incidents at insecure premises. Police deal with cases where burglaries are committed in broad daylight, sometimes even while the victim is at home. Good weather means open doors and windows, which makes homes more vulnerable to burglars.”

Inspector Barnaby says there’s a few things people can do to reduce their changes of a burglary being committed.
⚠️ If you’re going outside for gardening, relaxing in the sun, or working in the garage, take a moment to lock your doors and secure your windows first.
⚠️ Do the same at night when you go to bed - keep your doors and windows secure and close your curtains. Fitting window stays means you can get a breeze coming through, while keeping your windows secure.
⚠️ Get to know your neighbours - let them know if you’re going away and look out for one another.”

If you see any suspicious activity, people or vehicles in your neighbourhood, don't hesitate to contact Police.
If you witness or suspect any illegal activity, please call 111 if it is happening now, or make a report through 105 either online or over the phone, if it is after the fact.

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