Disability Support Services (DSS)

Disability Support Services (DSS) provides funding and support to help disabled people live good lives, participate in their communities and achieve greater independence. DSS is now part of the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) and supports thousands of disabled people, families and whānau throughout New Zealand. DSS coordinates and funds support services for approximately 55,000 disabled people each year and funds equipment, modifications and environmental support services for around 100,000 people.

For many disabled people, DSS is the gateway to funded support. The system can appear complex at first, but understanding how it works can help individuals and families access the services that best meet their needs.

What Support Does DSS Provide?

DSS funding may help people access a wide range of disability-related supports. Depending on eligibility and assessed needs, support can include personal care, household assistance, respite support, community participation, supported living services, residential support, equipment and home or vehicle modifications.

The goal of these services is to help disabled people participate in everyday life, maintain independence and achieve outcomes that are important to them and their families.

Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC)

For many people, the first step in accessing Disability Support Services is through a Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC) organisation. NASC services work with individuals and families to understand their circumstances, identify support needs and help determine what services may be available.

The assessment process focuses on understanding a person's goals, strengths, support requirements and everyday circumstances. This information helps guide decisions about the types of support that may be appropriate.

Equipment and Home Modifications

Many disabled people require specialised equipment or environmental modifications to live safely and independently. DSS funds equipment and modification services for tens of thousands of New Zealanders each year. This may include mobility equipment, communication devices, bathroom modifications, ramps, vehicle modifications and other assistive technologies.

Access to appropriate equipment can significantly improve independence, safety and participation in education, employment and community life.

Children, Young People and Families

DSS also supports disabled children and their families. Child Development Services assist thousands of disabled children every year by helping them reach developmental milestones and access services that support learning, communication, mobility and participation.

Families and whānau often play a central role in supporting disabled children. Access to the right information, services and support networks can make a significant difference to both children and their caregivers.

Enabling Good Lives

Many disability reforms in New Zealand have been influenced by the Enabling Good Lives (EGL) approach. EGL focuses on disabled people having greater choice, control and flexibility over the support they receive. It promotes person-directed planning and encourages services to focus on what matters most to each individual and their whānau.

The principles of Enabling Good Lives continue to influence how disability supports are designed and delivered across New Zealand.

Keeping Up With Changes

The disability support system continues to evolve. Changes to funding, legislation, eligibility criteria and service delivery can have a significant impact on disabled people and their families. Recent discussions around the Disability Support Services Bill and wider disability sector reforms demonstrate the importance of staying informed about developments affecting the disability community.

This page will provide news, updates, resources and information to help disabled people, families, whānau, carers and professionals stay informed about Disability Support Services in New Zealand.