Planned funding cuts paint a grim picture for disabled care
Media release
21 April 2019

IHC is incredibly relieved Ministers have intervened to block the Ministry of Health going ahead with $30 million of funding cuts for people with disabilities.

Documents obtained by the New Zealand Disability Support Network (NZDSN) reveal the Ministry was planning to cut up to $10 million from disability support services by June as an initial step towards addressing a $90 million deficit.

IHC Director of Advocacy Trish Grant says it shows the Ministers recognise the impact of cuts on the most vulnerable people with intellectual disabilities as a group that has been left behind for too long.

“We know from evidence the link between quality support and having a valued life in the community,” says Trish.

“Quality support does cost money, but investment in the sector is long overdue.

“The Government’s wellbeing agenda has included people with intellectual disabilities and IHC welcomes that.

“This group of New Zealanders deserve a fair go, and this begins with appropriate support that is adequately funded.

“We look forward to seeing how the Government plans to tackle this in next Month’s Budget announcement.”

ENDS

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