We are improving the way disabled people’s needs are assessed and supports are allocated. This will make things fairer and more consistent across the country, no matter where you live.
On this page
From mid-February, all NASCs (Needs Assessment Service Co-ordination organisations) and Enabling Good Lives sites across the country will use a consistent approach to assess people’s needs and allocate supports.
People will experience these changes, when they:
- seek DSS-funded support for the first time
- have a reassessment in the future.
What is different
Before their assessment, people will receive an information pack on what to expect and how to prepare.
NASCs and EGL sites will use a new tool to capture information from assessment conversations and build clear, personal plans.
After the assessment, people will be given a My DSS Funding Plan focused on their needs and the purpose of their funding.
Go to Operational Policy Assessment and Allocation of flexible funding for more information.
Carers
Family, whānau and carers’ needs may now be part of the assessment when their support is important to the disabled person’s needs and wellbeing.
Assessments will now include questions about caring, options for respite or wellbeing breaks, and supports to reduce stress for carers and those they support.
Information from these assessment conversations feeds into the My DSS Funding Plan, which can include specific support for carers where appropriate.
This means funding can be used to help carers take a break, manage their own wellbeing, and have back-up options they trust if they are unavailable.
Every situation is different. Sometimes a disabled person may not want their family, whānau or carer involved in their assessment (they may not require family support, for example). They can say this to their NASC before an assessment or review.
Reassessments
Non-urgent reassessments are temporarily paused to give NASCs and EGL sites time to put in place the changes.
People can still request an urgent reassessment if their circumstances change. They should talk with their NASC or Enabling Good Lives site.
DSS, NASCs and Enabling Good Lives sites are working to restart non-urgent or routine reassessments soon. We will keep the community updated.