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Download AudioA key player in the establishment of the new Ministry for Disabled People says attitudes need to change for tangata hauā to realise their full potential.
Whaikaha was launched last Friday, with initial support and funding coming from the Ministry of Social Development.
Dr Huhana Hickey says some of that funding will go towards carer support, equipment and accessibility tools for tangata hauā.
The ministry’s must also overcome attitudes such as that tangata hauā can not work as effectively as able-bodied workers.
“We don’t have to fall into stereotypes which is what a lot of people are falling into. Disability doesn’t mean we lack the ability. it simply means we need support sometimes,” she says.
Dr Hickey says Whaikaha also needs to have a strong Pasifika, Māori and kiwi approach to its work.
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