Access to Timata Hou

Timata Hou is a designated Regional Intellectual Disability Supported Accommodation Service (RIDSAS) and people are referred through the Regional Intellectual Disability Care Agency (RIDCA).

Services Provided

Timata Hou provides services in Auckland and Wellington offering a range of support, including:

• residential support in rural and urban settings
• supported living
• specialist assessment and crisis respite services
• educational and developmental programmes
• vocational and work opportunities.

The overall aim of the service is to assist people with intellectual disabilities to develop the skills to participate with dignity, safety and enjoyment in their community. It is expected that people move on from Timata Hou – some back to their families, some into independent living and some return to other mainstream residential services.

At any one time, Timata Hou supports around 55 people with intellectual disabilities and does not expect the numbers to grow beyond this level.

Timata Hou staff

Staff have a range of professional qualifications and experience in both mental health and intellectual disability services.

Psychologists, social workers, occupational therapists and psychiatric and psychopaedic nurses provide guidance and support to community support workers, who comprise the core of Timata Hou’s workforce. Most of the people referred to Timata Hou are also engaged with external treatment programmes provided by psychiatrists, psychologists, counsellors and other therapists.

Timata Hou’s philosophy

Timata Hou supports people to achieve their maximum potential. This support is professional and respectful of the unique needs and values of each person.

A key to Timata Hou’s success is the detailed support plan that is developed with input from clients, their families, support workers and health professionals. The plan guides staff in their day-to-day support of the client towards greater independence and, ultimately, their exit from Timata Hou.