Hi there! As you are a DFNZ member, we’d like to let you know about an important upcoming opportunity to make your voice heard. Over the next two weeks, the Ministry of Health’s Disability Support Services (DSS) is holding a series of forums throughout New Zealand to get input about disability issues, and this would be ideal chance for you to let Government representatives know about the ways dyslexia can affect individuals and families.

From our perspective, dyslexia is an alternative way of thinking which can bring talents and creative strengths if the appropriate support is given. The upside of dyslexia can be the ability to perceive the world from many perspectives, allowing skills to flourish in fields such as the arts, design, leadership, entrepreneurship and engineering.

The downside, however, can be learning difficulties which mean children require extra support both in and out of the classroom. We take the strong view that dyslexia is not a disability per se, but it can become one when not properly addressed by teachers and support staff. When this happens, the education system becomes a ‘disabling agent’, meaning that dyslexic children need the same sort of consideration and assistance that are available to children with other types of disabilities

We are aware that some members of DFNZ have successfully applied for the Child Disability Allowance in the past. However, it appears that the broad view of DDS is that dyslexic children do not have the “physical, sensory, psychiatric or intellectual disability” and the requirement for “constant care and attention due to this disability” which are the official criteria for awarding this allowance.

If you disagree with the DDS policy, for example on the grounds that dyslexia can become a disability if not addressed properly, one of the following forums could provide an ideal opportunity to get this view across. 

DSS has provided the following information about these events:

“The Ministry of Health’s Disability Support Services (DSS) is holding Consumer forums/hui throughout NZ to seek input about disability issues from disabled people, their families, whanau, aiga and carers.

“These meetings provide an opportunity for you to talk to the Ministry about the disability support services they fund, and to share your ideas and priorities for the future provision of services.

“The Deputy Direct-General of Health and Disability National Services, Geraldine Woods, will be attending many of the meetings along with other staff from the DSS.

“Registration is preferred prior to the day to ensure adequate resources are available. For further information or to register your attendance free phone 0800 373 664 or email dsdforum@moh.govt.nz You can also contact your local disability information centre.

“We encourage carers to attend these events to ensure your voice is heard in disability decision making.  The events also provide a good opportunity to meet with other carers and families.” If you are able to attend one of the forums, we would love to hear about your feedback and experiences. Finally, don’t forget that Dyslexia Action Week will be held June 15-21st. Earlier this year we told you about Neil Mackay’s workshops (and there are still some limited spaces available at these), and we’re looking forward to telling you about our other plans for Action Week soon. Until then, keep checking www.dfnz.org.nz for latest news. Kind regards. The DFNZ Team Dyslexia Foundation of New Zealand www.dfnz.org.nz www.4dschools.org.nz

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