What guidance, if any, has the Ministry provided on whether the purchase of one‑off items—such as recreational or therapeutic equipment—may result in a reduction of future Carer Support funding on the basis that such items are not required annually?

Answer

I am advised that Disability Support Services (DSS) has not issued any guidance specifying that the purchase of a one-off item will automatically result in a reduction of future Carer Support funding. Funding allocations are based on a person's assessed disability-related support needs and circumstances at the time of assessment and reflected in the person’s My DSS Funding Plan. I am further advised that where a person's circumstances or disability-related support needs change, this may be considered through future review or reassessment and allocation decisions. In some situations, a person may choose to use their funding to make a one-off purchase that will meet an ongoing disability support need.