For immediate release
Wednesday, 9 January 2008
Turner speaks out for disabled caregivers
Reports that the government has frozen funding to residential homes for the disabled is further evidence that money is
being misdirected and wasted in this sector, according to UnitedFuture deputy leader, Judy Turner
“Needs assessments are vital for those with deteriorating conditions but many disabled people say they are frustrated at
how often they have to confirm to funders that they are still disabled to get support they have received for years.
“Individualised care packages would also save a lot of waste in the sector.
“These are some of our most vulnerable citizens and supporting those that support them should be a number one priority.
“Based on pay rates overseas it has been calculated that New Zealand caregivers should have a starting rate of $17 an
hour.
“We have lost too many good people from care giving because of poor pay, poor conditions and the lack of vocational
development.
ENDS