Topic 1: Improving the way the needs of disabled people are assessed, and how support is allocated

What we want to achieve

We want to make sure disabled people’s needs are assessed in the same way. We also want to ensure there is more consistency and fairness in the decisions about what support is provided.

Why change is needed

We know that DSS does not always provide a fair or consistent level of support and it is not always what is needed. The support provided is not always reviewed or reassessed as often as it should be, and reviews are sometimes not as thorough as they should be. Responses to our 2024 survey reinforced these concerns.

What we are proposing

We want to make changes to improve the existing tools that are used to assess peoples’ needs and make decisions about what support they receive. This will help stabilise the DSS system.

Improve existing NASC assessment tools and processes

We are considering all or some of the following changes to improve the current approach to NASC assessments. EGL assessments are not included at this stage.

Proposals

1. Make sure there is a consistent Needs Assessment and Service Co-ordination (NASC) approach
2. Improve how the assessment tool reflects the diversity of disability
3. Assess the needs of family/whānau and carers
4. Make sure that the services and support a person receives continues to meet their needs
5. Helping you access appropriate support.