Types of Disability Support
Ngā momo āwhina
New Zealand has a wide range of supports, provided by a number of government agencies. We can help you directly access
After a kōrero with you, we’ll put together a tailored plan with our recommended supports – carefully chosen to reflect your life, your disability, and its impact on you and your whānau.
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There are two main types of support available through DSS
Flexible Support
Flexible Support gives you control over how to use your allocated support, within the Ministry of Social Development guidelines. This means you can decide who, when and how you are supported. You’re in charge of creating an agreement with your chosen support, and it’s up to you to make sure your needs are being met and that you stay within your budget.
Contracted Support
Contracted Support is when your specific services are provided directly by organisations contracted by the Ministry of Social Development. These contracted providers are upheld to certain standards of care and service. They’ll work with you to deliver your support, in line with both the terms set by the Ministry and your own outcomes plan.
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Disability supports
If you qualify for
DSS support, we can help connect you to a range of supports available from other assessment services.Equipment and aids
You may be able to get funding support for invaluable equipment like hearing aids, mobility scooters or glasses. We can help you start a kōrero with an approved MSD assessor, who will work with you to discover the options available.
Housing and vehicle modifications
Making changes to your home and car can make a big difference to your daily life. We can open up a conversation with an approved modification assessor, who can help you find out whether your modification needs can be funded.
Hearing and vision services
From hearing aids to screen-readers, there’s a range of funding options for people with hearing and vision loss. For resources like these, we can put you in touch with the right place.
Referral to physio, occupational therapy or diagnostic services
If you’re eligible for DSS-funded support, we can make referrals for you. But your
GP may be able to help you faster, so don’t delay in getting the support you need. -
In Aotearoa New Zealand, there are a number of other organisations that offer a range of free and funded support services. Some of these services are just for disabled people, and some are available to all New Zealanders. We can help you explore all the options – both targeted and mainstream – so you can access the full range of available support.