2026 update
LifeLinks continues to work within the available Disability Support Services funding while responding to the needs and priorities of disabled people across Canterbury and the West Coast.
We consider each person’s circumstances and support needs individually and will work alongside the person, their whānau and support networks to identify appropriate options.
Disability Support Services
Disability Support Services - Ministry of Social Development funds a range of disability support services including:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder services
- Child development services
- Community day services
- Community residential support services
- Equipment and modification for disabled people
- Resident Family Support
- Hearing and vision services
- Home and Community Support Services
- Individualised Funding
- Respite and Carer Support
- Supported Living
https://www.msd.govt.nz/about-msd-and-our-work/disability-support-services/index.html
Family Support Options
- Support and Respite for carers: Disability Support Services-funded services designed to give families/whānau/carers a break.
- Resident Family Support: Funds some disabled people with high or very high needs to employ their parents or other family members they live with to provide them with disability supports.
- Carers New Zealand: provides a range of information, advice and resources for families/whānau/carers.
- Parent to Parent: A non-government organisation that provides information, education and support for families of children, young people and adults with any type of disability.
Feedback
Opinion Survey
Every time you receive a service from LifeLinks your Outcome Planner or Outcome Coordinator will invite you to complete our opinion survey. This can be completed on a paper copy located in your information pack or on-line.
We actively use this feedback to constantly improve our service delivery and provide you with the best possible service.
Based on past experience, completing this survey questionnaire only takes a few minutes.
Complaints
Delivering high standards of service for our clients/tangata whaiora is a priority for LifeLinks. However, if you are unhappy or have concerns about any aspect of the service you receive please do not hesitate to contact the Operations Manager on our free phone: 0800 866 877.
If you would like help with making a complaint the Health and Disability Commission provide a free and independent advocacy service. You can contact an advocate by free phone (0800 550 050) or free email (advocacy@advocacy.org.nz).