Harikoa Life - Testing the Path to Independent Living

Your participation is crucial in shaping the future of disability services and housing in New Zealand. Join our online workshops and make your voice heard.

Overseas, the mixed community concept has often achieved higher levels of wellbeing among people with disabilities compared to the general population. Inspired by these successful international models, and with input from people with disability and parents in New Zealand, we formulated a highly integrated approach that ensures the wellbeing of people with disability, even when their parents and family are no longer there. The workshop aims to obtain feedback and further input to refine the model before roll-out. We will look at what it means to foster positive

attitudes among community residents, service providers, and families, and delve into some of the key differences in the underlying thinking, the importance of natural support systems and "just enough" assistance delivered by service providers, promoting greater independence and overall wellbeing.

We will also look at the critical role of creating communal spaces that encourage organic friendships among individuals of various abilities, nurturing a supportive and inclusive environment.