Support people with intellectual disabilities in residential services.

Our amazing staff moved quickly to lockdown IHC run homes to ensure that around 3000 people we support are safe in their own homes.

While these services are funded through Government contracts, we know that the people with intellectual disabilities we support will need additional activities and assistance not funded by these contracts, for example mobile phone top ups so they can remain in contact with family and friends.

“Our teams are working so well in these strange times, it’s incredible.”

“In the middle of this, the people we support are still having fun.”

“I’m amazed by the standout actions of our Support Workers in their commitment to the people they work with.”

Following last years’ lockdowns fundraising money helped place tablets in thousands of IHC’s residential homes in communities around New Zealand and these are now being well used for people to communicate with their families, friends and loved ones daily and also access movies, videos on how to make things on YouTube, games and other fun activities, so fundraising money really does have an impact.

Please continue to support people with intellectual disabilities and their families at this critical moment.

Support families of young children with intellectual disabilities.

IHC has set up a network called Awhi Ngā Mātua (embrace in your community). On their facebook page families can access online sessions with play therapists, music therapists and behavioural therapists, plus practical and shared lived experience from other parents, so they don’t feel completely alone and overwhelmed.

This site continues to help thousands of families looking for ideas, tips and sometimes support to get through a very difficult time. It’s proving to be a great way for families of children with intellectual disabilities to share and support each other.

To view the Awhi Ngā Mātua facebook page click here

The WeCare.Kiwi Helpline (0800 777 797) and email (help@wecare.kiwi) is working again during this critical moment to support families and individuals reaching out for help and advice. IHC and the Carers Alliance work closely together on this and we also work with a wide network of IHC and Student Army volunteers in communities all over the country

Supporting people with intellectual disabilities living independently in their own homes.

IHC launched its extensive volunteer network in communities around the country. We have teamed up with Carers NZ to provide connection support for all vulnerable people living independently.

It’s called WeCare.Kiwi and is a website and an 0800 number people can call. All our volunteers are Police checked prior to working with vulnerable people.

Many people living in their own homes are used to support to do everyday things like cooking, shopping and cleaning. During lockdown many are finding it incredibly stressful and difficult without this support.

Having someone from IHC call and check in with them is important as they can be given friendship support and guidance with things they might find challenging, like online shopping.

This team of dedicated volunteers provides support, advice and are a friendly voice on the phone where required. This is only possible with the support of our kind donors.