How to access our services
Anyone wanting to use our services must go through a comprehensive needs assessment, which gathers information from the person with an intellectual disability and sometimes their family.
Some people are referred by ACC or approach us directly. Most assessments are done by Needs Assessment and Service Coordination Services (NASC), which are part of the Ministry of Health. To find out who to contact in your area, call your local IDEA Services office and they will give you details.
The NASC agencies assess needs, coordinate services, review people in services, and
undertake reassessments if needs change.
IDEA Services accessing services policy
The process for accessing IDEA Services involves several key steps:
- Assessing service need.
- Establishing eligibility for service.
- Identifying appropriate Services.
- Confirming funding.
Who is involved in the process at different stages may vary slightly around the country depending on:
- IDEA Service’s own internal service and management structures.
- Expertise and information provided by needs assessment and service coordination agencies.
- Contracts and requirements of funders.
IDEA Service’s service standards for accessing service are set out below.
IDEA Services standards
IDEA Services Standards for accessing services are as follows:
Responding to Referrals
IDEA Services will respond to referrals for service in a prompt and professional manner.
Keeping People Informed
IDEA Services will ensure families and people seeking service are fully informed throughout the process.
Assessing Need
All people accessing Services will have had a formal needs assessment.
Establishing Eligibility
All people accessing Services will be assessed as to their eligibility for service.
Entry to Services
Entry to service will depend on a suitable service being available and funding being confirmed.
Planning and Delivering Service
All Services will be provided on the basis of a plan developed in consultation with the individual, their family/whanau and others as appropriate.
Information Gathering
IDEA Services will ensure the collection, storage and distribution of any personal information is in accordance with the Privacy Act.
IDEA Services managers are responsible for delivering services in accordance with these standards.
The policy applies to access to all services, residential, supported living, vocational and family/whanau. Variations in the application of this policy to children and young persons is detailed in the policy.
To access the full policy contact the Area Manager at your local IDEA Services office.
Funding
We are largely funded by government through the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Social Development. For accommodation and contract board the people receiving services also contribute some of their benefit or pay.
For more information about charges, contact your local IDEA Services office.
