CCS Disability Action supports the Productivity Commission’s report on social services

National community organisation CCS Disability Action is supportive of the new Productivity Commission report released yesterday around better social services.

CCS Disability Action Chief Executive David Matthews says his organisation welcomes the long anticipated report; More Effective Social Services and its focus on innovation and empowering people using services. He was also pleased by a change in the Productivity Commission’s view on the Investment Approach.

“The Commission had previously focused on a narrow Investment Approach – with reducing welfare liability being the only reason for some social services being provided. In our view this would have left many disabled people without the services they require to lead full lives within their communities. The Commission now acknowledges this risk and has recommended explicit criteria be included under the Investment Approach to ensure people can access at least a minimum level of service.”

Mr Matthews said he was also pleased by the emphasis on putting more control in the hands of disabled people over their supports – through Individualised Funding.

“Disabled people often know exactly what they need and what will work for them, and Individualised Funding provides a mechanism for them to take the steering wheel so to speak. What it takes to make Individualised Funding successful, however, is adequate financial resourcing, support for people who wish to try this but need help to understand how it works – and flexibility by providers and the community.”

For the sake of disabled New Zealanders Mr Matthews is keen to see the Government adopt the Commission’s recommendations as quickly and effectively as possible.

“Consultation has occurred, recommendations have been made – now it’s time for action.”

ENDS

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