Alternative Funding Sources

Individualised Funding allows for some item purchases to be made using the funding. Part of the criteria is that it cannot be funded through an Alternative Funding Source, an alternative funding source is considered the most appropriate funding stream available to cover the costs of the item you wish to purchase. For example Enable or Accessable are the equipment providers in New Zealand, you must source funding from these organisations first, before your Individualised Funding could be used to cover the costs.

AccessAble (Auckland/Northland)
For all equipment and housing modifications for Auckland and Northland, contact Accessability. https://www.accessable.co.nz/solutions-we-provide

Enable (remainder of country)
For all equipment and housing modifications for the rest of the country South of Auckland, contact Enable https://www.enable.co.nz/services/equipment-for-disabled-people/

Workbridge are an organisation that help disabled people into employment opportunities. https://www.workbridge.co.nz

Halberg Foundation
Halberg Activity Fund grants are provided to enable physically disabled young people, aged 5-21, to participate in sport and recreation by reducing financial barriers.

Applications can be made by or on behalf of a physically disabled young person and can be submitted for the following categories:

1. Equipment - Either the adaptation of equipment or the purchase of disability specific equipment
2. Lessons and/or Coaching - This could be group or individual lessons/coaching to enable participation
3. Camps – Additional costs associated with a physically disabled young person attending a camp. Eligible costs include a support person & adapted accommodation

 https://halbergactive.co.nz/activity-fund-grants/  

Lotteries Foundation

Lottery Individuals with Disabilities funds vehicles, vehicle modifications, scooters, assistance dogs and other mobility equipment, that will enable better access to the community.

It also provides grants to people with disabilities that affect their communication, to buy equipment to help them communicate. https://www.communitymatters.govt.nz/lottery-individuals-with-disabilities/

Disability Allowance is a weekly payment from Work and Income for people who have regular, ongoing costs because of a disability. https://www.govt.nz/browse/health/financial-help/disability-allowance/

When you see a specialist, you’ll visit a medically trained and registered healthcare professional in that field of medicine. In most cases, you need to visit your General Practitioner (GP) first so they can refer you. https://www.govt.nz/browse/health/gps-and-prescriptions/seeing-a-specialist/

If you have a disability or illness you might be able to get an allowance, subsidy or loan to help with your expenses. Financial assistance is available for all citizens. https://www.govt.nz/browse/health/financial-help/financial-help-for-people-with-disabilities/

Healthcare over 65
If you get NZ Super or a Veteran’s Pension, and you have a disability or health concern, you can apply for financial help or use services provided by the government to meet your health needs. https://www.govt.nz/browse/health/financial-help/government-help-with-healthcare-over-65/

Cystic Fibrosis - https://www.cfnz.org.nz/get-support/financial-assistance-and-awards/

National Foundation for Deaf and Hard-Hearing - https://www.nfd.org.nz/grant-and-scholarships

Multiple Sclerosis NZ - https://www.msnz.org.nz/scholarships-and-grants/

Wellington Paraplegic and Physically Disabled Trust - http://wppdt.org/

Blind Low Vision NZ - https://blindlowvision.org.nz/how-we-can-help/support-and-community/financial-assistance/

Cerebral Palsy NZ

https://cerebralpalsy.org.nz/member-services/grants/

Individual Grants - https://cerebralpalsy.org.nz/member-services/grants/individual-grants/

Academic Grants - https://cerebralpalsy.org.nz/member-services/grants/academic-grants/

Organisation Grants - https://cerebralpalsy.org.nz/member-services/grants/organisations-grants/