Kia ora koutou,

As a response to COVID-19 and its challenges, changes were made so access to respite could be more flexible. The changes included people being able to use Carer Support and Individualised Funding (IF) to pay family/whānau/aiga to provide support, including those living in the same household.

Whaikaha is pleased to confirm that this more flexible approach to employing family/ whānau/aiga will continue until 28 February 2023 for those using Carer Support or IF through Whaikaha disability support services.

This means that tāngata whaikaha Māori and disabled people have extended choice as to who can provide support.

 Feedback from tāngata whaikaha Māori and disabled people and their whānau, and carers has shown they value this more flexible approach to supports.

 Going forward we are committed to incorporating this flexibility into our framework and guidelines for disability support services, which we are developing in line with the Enabling Good Lives approach.

 In addition to extending the approach to employing family/whānau/aiga through to the end of February (noted above), this reconfirms that the flexibility to use Purchasing Guidelines for carer support allocations, was permanently put in place in 2021.

 Tips for completing your Carer Support Forms

•  Wherever possible please print clearly or type the information onto your claim form

• Make sure that you sign and date the form (this is verification)

• Ensure that you attach as much information as possible with regard to purchases including receipts or quotes

Please remember to keep all receipts and store them away or save electronically 

You can support friends and whānau by:

• meeting outside where there is better ventilation. You may want to wear a face mask if it is difficult to keep a safe distance away

• isolating away from them if you test positive for COVID-19, or are unwell

• offering to drop off groceries or essential supplies

• not visiting them if you are unwell

• keeping in touch with them, and checking up on their physical and mental wellbeing

• checking if their aged residential care facility has extra measures in place for visitors

• being kind and showing compassion for others. Give other people space, and keep a safe distance away.

• The COVID-19 disability helpline can provide assistance with vaccines, applying for face mask exemptions, advice on COVID-19 testing, and guidance with managing COVID-19 at home. This includes if your support worker or carer is unavailable. Call 0800 11 12 13. If you are unable to call, you can text them on 8988.

• The COVID-19 welfare phone line can help if you are self-isolating and need food or other essential items. Call 0800 512 337.

• If it is an emergency and you need urgent medical help or cannot breathe properly, call emergency services on 111. If you have COVID-19, tell them when you call.

There may be financial support for some people in situations where they need to stay away from work and cannot work from home.

Financial support

You can find support to access food and other essential supplies, and if you need help with accommodation.

COVID-19 support

Find helplines that are available if you are not coping or have concerns for others.

Wellbeing helplines and support