IHC says the extra $1.1 billion over five years that the government has allocated to Whaikaha in the Budget must be used
to make a real difference to the lives of intellectually disabled people.
Director of Advocacy Tania Thomas says targeted support is critical for the pressing needs of this community which has
the worst outcomes of all New Zealanders.
“The life expectancy for intellectually disabled individuals is significantly lower than for the general population, up
to 20 years lower than the rest of the population.
“Intellectually disabled people overwhelmingly live in more deprived areas, achieve fewer qualifications, don’t travel
overseas, have poor health outcomes, experience more poverty, violence and crime, have low internet access and have
extremely low levels of employment.
“It is crucial for the government to address these disparities with targeted investments in healthcare, education,
employment support, and social services.
“Without such measures, intellectually disabled individuals will continue to face a cycle of disadvantage, deprivation
and discrimination.