Minister opens new facility for people with disabilities

A purpose-built community facility for people with physical and neurological disabilities was opened in Porirua today by the Minister for Disability Issues, Ruth Dyson..

Emmerson House has a government contract to provide a supportive home-like environment, with a focus on rehabilitation, for up to 20 people aged 16 to 64. These residents might otherwise have had to live in aged care facilities or hospitals.

"Facilities such as this give younger people with disabilities a degree of independence while providing support and meeting rehabilitation needs," says Ms Dyson.

"This is the sort of service that enables people with disabilities to gain their whole potential and participate fully in society. These aims are at the heart of the Government's national strategy on disability support services, which is currently being developed."

Ms Dyson urged Emmerson House residents to have a say in the consultation on the strategy later this year.

"We would be interested to hear Emmerson House residents' views on this new service and how it compares with other services they have had experience with in the past.

"I look forward to a time where there will be accommodation and lifestyle options available for all people with disabilities. The experiences of places such as Emmerson House will help guide the development of future services which help to remove the barriers to fulfilling a quality life that many people with disabilities face," says Ms Dyson.

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