Essential services for disabled people
The Government announced $27 million new funding on 26 March 2020 so essential social services can keep delivering for communities through COVID-19.
As part of this, up to $6 million is now available so disability providers can keep supporting disabled people during the lockdown and periods of self-isolation, limiting the impacts of anxiety and loneliness
Community Participation and Very High Needs
The $6m additional funding is to support the wellbeing of disabled people who usually access MSD-funded Community Participation and Very High Needs services, both of which are essential services.
The funding can be used to employ additional staff to provide regular support to people and their families. This support can be given through a variety of channels including face to face (using Ministry of Health Guidelines), email, Facebook, texts or phone calls.
The funding can also be used to develop resources to provide activities for people at home. This can include setting up and managing private Facebook groups, developing YouTube videos, video conferencing, creating and sending hard copy activity packs, sending art supplies and supporting peer support networks.
Accessing additional funding for essential disability services
We have been in contact with all our currently contracted Community Participation and Very High Needs service providers to let them know how to apply for the funding.
If you hold an existing Community Participation or Very High Needs contract and you haven’t heard from us yet please email us at: Community_Participation_Services@workandincome.govt.nz.
