All NASCs around the country will start doing their assessments the same way. This is to support a fairer and more consistent approach.
In the consultation we got feedback that the assessment can be stressful and confusing. People will get better information on the process and what they should expect.
NASCs will develop a personal plan with disabled people to:
- focus on what the person wants and needs
- address barriers linked to the person’s disability
- be clear on the purpose of the funding.
Families and carers
Family, whānau and carers often play a critically important role in the support of disabled people.
Care needs to be sustainable. Including families and carers in assessments and providing identifiable funding to support them will help to improve their wellbeing.
It will also provide other benefits. For example, it will support planning for situations where the family or carers can no longer provide care.
Reassessments
Reassessments will be paused from February until October 2026. This will give NASCs time to implement these changes.
Disabled people can request urgent reassessments if their circumstances change.