Agenda of Disability Strategic Advisory Panel

Disability Strategic Advisory Panel

28 April 2014

Disability Strategy Advisory Group (DSAG), report on challenges facing Aucklanders with disabilities requiring strategic resolution.

1.0 Report to Governing Body 23 April 2013.

With the aim of transforming Auckland into the world’s most liveable, inclusive and fair city consistent with the Auckland Plan, DSAG draws to Council’s attention the meaning and impact of accessibility for all people of all ages and physical abilities. DSAG urges Council to take on board the disability perspective when it comes to designing our new Auckland. In doing so, DSAG believes people of all ages and abilities will benefit.

2.0 Guiding principles.

1. Full accessibility with dignity for all citizens. This means more professional understanding of disability issues and their mitigation; better codes of compliance; better standards of implementation at the operational and frontline levels; improved design of street scapes, access to buildings, safe crossings, usable transport systems and social housing that incorporates “Life Mark” type principles for adapted use by the elderly and disabled persons.

2. In terms of getting about the city there is need to take a whole of journey approach to planning.

3. Commitment to the principle of access for all through universal or inclusive design is essential. A universal design manual that lays out best practice standards should be tied to this principled commitment.

4. Good urban design with access as a top priority does benefit everyone including the elderly, is an investment in liveability and the cheapest option in the long run. "Do it once, do it right".

5. Nothing about us without us. Always consult with the people who have lived experience of disability.

6. People with disabilities are spread throughout Auckland. We are ratepayers, customers, students, workers and so on. Our hopes and dreams are no different from the rest of the community. We seek opportunities to contribute to the life of our city.

7. Society needs to change, not persons with disabilities, we are stuck with it. "I am only as disabled as society makes me".

NB.: Appendix 1 to this paper summarises DSAG’s aspirations of Aucklanders with disabilities. Appendix 2 lists questions posed to Council by DSAG in October 2012. Responses to these questions in Appendix 2 would be appreciated.

3.0 Current status of Auckland for people with disabilities.

Today's Auckland is littered with inaccessible buildings, hard to use facilities such as swimming pools, modes of transport, and hazardous traffic crossings that act as barriers to participation by people with disabilities and other disadvantaged groups. This was well demonstrated during the Mayor's walkabout with DSAG members last year. Adaptive housing that accommodates people with incapacity and that is close to public transport is hard to find. Reliance on good will and the charity ethic for a more accessible city is not working. City planners and consents officers backed by controls and persuasion must do better, given the country's aging demographic.

Council and its officers appear to have a basic understanding of the general needs of people with disabilities but little knowledge of the practical and detailed steps needed for implementation. Disability user and provider groups are a resource at the practical level.

4.0 DSAG’s current work is focused on planning for an accessible and inclusive Auckland.

The concept of good universal design for tomorrow’s Auckland should start with fair access to the Unitary Plan document so people with disabilities can have their say.

The most urgent matter to be addressed is the inclusion in the Unitary Plan of a commitment by Auckland Council, its CCOS and Local Boards to the principles of:

A. enabling access with dignity to the city's buildings, street scapes, facilities and services for all citizens of all ages and abilities;

B. recognising that the long term liveability of Auckland depends on having codes and consents that reflect universal Barrier Free design of street scapes, buildings, transport systems and some social housing, so enabling community participation according to ability.

Design for inclusion is poorly understood and DSAG wants more professional development and quality recruitment in the area of inclusive community design. The health and well-being of all people is modulated by the design of facilities and services that enable community participation, full development of personal potential and the reduction of isolation and loneliness. Enlightened leading edge public policy does more to improve community health and disability than many one to one costly specialist services.

A liveable city is one that includes people with disabilities, enables them to participate in community life and to move around freely, independently and with dignity.

Street scapes, traffic management, safe crossings, public transportation and buildings for public use should be Barrier Free and make positive accommodations for people whose mobility, vision, hearing or learning capacities are impaired, either temporarily or permanently.

As Auckland's development progresses, people with disabilities should be consulted as the concept of inclusive or universal design gains momentum and professional acceptance. DSAG has been briefed on the development of a design manual focused on universal design for people with disabilities. We applaud this initiative of a manual that will continually adapt to changing circumstances. DSAG should remain in touch with this manual as it evolves.

Planners and officers approving consents must be familiar with these design parameters and be aware of their significance in creating the most liveable city in the world.

Legal compliance or some form of regulation will be needed to show that Council means business with respect to inclusive design and its implementation. There are numerous examples of barriers to access in today’s city scapes that tell us that voluntary compliance does not work. The problem is that New Zealand law is relatively weak by international standards and is not well enforced when it comes to access to facilities and services. Minimum standards do exist but they are inadequate by best practice ratings and do not comply with the New Zealand Disability Strategy or the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Some kind of regulatory change is needed to drive compliance with planning and consent decisions that favour full community access for everyone. Access is seen as a cost occasioned by disability. It is not! It is an investment in future proofing the community for everybody.

The Disability Strategy Advisory Group's submissions on the Auckland Plan, Auckland's Long-term Plan and various other submissions particularly on transport, have consistently sought assurances that financial and other resources are made available to make Auckland fully inclusive and accessible for everyone. Our position has not changed.

Finally, DSAG repeats its request that urgent attention be given to the inclusion of a “headline”, consolidating statement on universal access for all people in the Unitary Plan rule book.

Appendix 1.

DSAG Summary of aspirations on behalf of Aucklanders with disabilities.

· People with disabilities have the right to carry out all their everyday transactions with the same equity and dignity as everyone else.

· People with disabilities live throughout the community and we should be able to easily find affordable and accessible housing in all neighbourhoods.

· People with disabilities should have access to the same information and communications from Council, its CCOs and Local Boards as everyone else.

· People with disabilities need to be able to move freely and easily throughout the urban environment like everyone else.

· People with disabilities should be able to participate fully in the social life of the city.

· People with disabilities like to go to concerts, museums, theatres and to other artistic and entertainment events like everyone else.

· People with disabilities can be found actively participating in and contributing to Auckland's local and neighbourhood communities.

Appendix 2.

DSAG questions for Council.

Questions arising from DSAG paper - "Aspirations for the World's Most Liveable, Accessible and Inclusive City, January 2012" and submissions on Auckland Plan and Regional Land Transport Strategy and other strategic documents.

1. You will know that the Disability Strategic Advisory Group developed a statement called "Aspirations for the World's Most Liveable, Accessible and Inclusive City, January 2012", which we understand has been promulgated throughout Council. The statement notes that Auckland Council is a modern city authority tasked with delivering a variety of services to the public, particularly people who live in Auckland and also who might visit our city from time to time. It further notes that councils and other entities that deliver services to the public have legal obligations to take all reasonable steps to ensure such services are delivered equitably to the whole public. People with disabilities can be found throughout the entire community; we are tax payers, rate payers, customers, citizens, residents, students at all levels of education, visitors, tourists, and so on.

2. The Mayor established the Disability Strategic Advisory Group (DSAG) to:

(a) identify and communicate to the Council the interests and preferences of persons with disabilities in Auckland in relation to:

i. The content of the strategies, policies, plans, and bylaws of the Council; and

ii. any matter that the Group considers to be of particular interest or concern to disabled persons with disabilities; and

(b) advise the Mayor, the governing body, local boards, Council Controlled Organisations (CCOs) and Council of processes and mechanisms for engaging with persons with disabilities in Auckland.

3. Our objective in developing the statement referred to above is to focus the attention of Council on reasonable steps it should be taking right now and within existing resources to ensure Council meets the needs of people with disabilities living in and visiting Auckland.

4. The DSAG would appreciate a response from Council that details current strategies and plans Council has in place to ensure its services are as accessible as possible to people with disabilities. We would ask that the response addresses each of the areas identified in the statement.

5. The DSAG is aware that whilst Council can and should be taking certain steps right now towards full accessibility, achieving a fully accessible and inclusive city may take a number of years. It is hoped that this response will not only help the DSAG to fully recognise efforts Council is already making to ensure its services are fully accessible, but also that it will lead to the development of a comprehensive disability policy and action plan with time frames to achieve a truly accessible city.

6. We offer the following questions as a starting point. We would appreciate it if the response includes answers to these questions but we do not want to constrain Council to addressing just these points.

7. The DSAG looks forward to Council's response, and working with Council to develop a comprehensive disability policy to help Auckland become the world's most livable city for people with disabilities.

Accessible Environment.

8. Can Council provide an assurance that it will fully adhere to New Zealand Standard 4121 and other relevant standards identified in the Building Act 2004 when issuing resource and building consents and regulate accordingly?

9. Noting that legislation such as the Resource Management Act 1991, the Building Act 2004, New Zealand Standard 4121 and associated regulations do not currently reflect all the aspirations of persons with disabilities, is Council in a position to adopt a liberal interpretation of the building standards to ensure people with disabilities can have the same equitable access to public buildings as is enjoyed by other people?

10. Would Council support a call for a comprehensive review of current national building standards?

11. Noting that people with disabilities are also pedestrians who need to be able to cross Auckland's busy roads in safety, what steps is Council taking to ensure intersections and pedestrian crossings are fully accessible to people with disabilities?

12. Noting that blind and vision impaired people in particular rely heavily on audible traffic signals, what steps is Council taking to ensure audible traffic signals are installed on all controlled intersections and will remain in working order?

Urban Design.

13. What strategies are planned to increase the stock of housing in Auckland that meets the needs of people with disabilities?

Accessible Information.

14. What plans are in place to ensure the information systems, policies, practices and procedures of Council and Council Controlled Organisations are appropriate to deliver public and personal information that is fully accessible to people with disabilities?

15. When can we expect such information as planning documents and advice of activities such as rubbish collections in local areas to be routinely available in accessible electronic formats and in sign language and plain language?

16. When can we expect personal information such as property valuations, rates demands and other bills including water bills to be available in accessible electronic formats?

17. What strategies are in place to ensure public websites run by Council and Council controlled organisations meet accepted accessibility guidelines such as WCAG 2.0?

Accessible Public Transport.

18. What strategies are in place to ensure Auckland's public transport, including related buildings, facilities and information, will be fully accessible to people with disabilities?

19. When can we expect all buses and trains to be fully accessible to people with disabilities?

20. When can we expect all buses and trains to have talking signs and talking stop announcements?

Inclusive Events.

21. What steps is Council taking to ensure people with disabilities can enjoy the range of public events Auckland has to offer?

Arts and Culture.

22. Noting that people with disabilities like to go to concerts, museums, the theatre and to other cultural, artistic and entertainment events, what steps is Council taking to ensure such activities will be fully accessible?

23. Is Council in a position to make all public funding for artistic events contingent on the recipient organisation taking reasonable steps to include persons with disabilities in their activities?

Local Boards.

24. What steps is Council taking to ensure Local Boards will create local community environments that are fully accessible and inclusive?

End.

Disability Strategic Advisory Panel

28 April 2014

Aspirations for the World’s Most Liveable, Accessible and Inclusive City –

Response to Disability Strategic Advisory Panel

Accessible Environment

Consents and regulation

(cf paragraph 8)

Auckland Council is committed to complying with the Building Act 2004 when issuing building consents. We are certainly guided by NZ Standard 4121, but stress that this is not the only means of compliance; for example, a designer may opt to design in accordance with the acceptable solutions, which is permissible.

Current building standards and legislation

(cf paragraphs 9 & 10)

Auckland Council is aware of the limitations of current legislation and standards in relation to ensuring fully and easy access with dignity for persons with disabilities. Currently, we are only able to enforce the Building Act 2004, rather than require provisions over and above the Act.

We are committed to working in partnership with disability organisations and networks, such as the DSAP, to influence central government to improve the legislation, and to undertake a comprehensive review of building standards in relation to access and facilities for persons with disabilities.

Accessible intersections and pedestrian crossings, including audible traffic signals

(cf paragraphs 11 & 12)

Auckland Council adheres to RTS 14 guidelines, to ensure intersections and pedestrian crossings are accessible to people with disabilities. The RTS 14 is a set of guidelines which specifies the design, installation and performance standards of pedestrian facilities for blind and vision-impaired people both for new facilities and for those that need to be upgraded. It is produced by the New Zealand Transport Agency. The latest version was completed in 2007 and current revisions are pending finalisation. The guidelines cover two features that are installed to assist blind and vision-impaired people on their walking journey: tactile ground surface indicators and audible tactile traffic signals. Audible signals are installed on all new traffic signal sites that have pedestrian facilities. All traffic signal installations are inspected on an annual basis to identify and repair faults. At other times we are reliant on public reports to notify us of any malfunctions.

Urban Design

Increased housing stock that meets the needs of persons with disabilities

(cf paragraph 13)

Auckland Council would like to acknowledge and thank the DSAP for their contribution to the early engagement of the (now) notified draft Unitary Plan. Your input and drive in establishing initial workshops provided vital information for the discovery and planning process.

The proposed draft rule from the notified draft Unitary Plan is listed as follows:

1. Where a new building or buildings within an application area contains 10 or more dwellings, 20 percent of those dwellings must comply with the following:

a. Doorways must have a minimum clear opening width of 810mm

b. Stairwells must have a minimum width of 900mm

c. Corridors must have a minimum width of 1050mm

d. The principal means of access from the site frontage, or the car park serving the dwelling, to the principal entrance of the dwelling must have:

i. a minimum width of 1.2m

ii. a maximum slope of 1:20

iii. a maximum cross fall of 1:50

2. The number of dwellings that this control applies to will be determined by rounding up to a number closest to 20 percent of the total number dwellings proposed.

Auckland Council Property Limited (ACPL) is involved with housing developments in Auckland by way of the land supply. ACPL recently presented development opportunities on Auckland Council land to external providers, such as development companies and charitable housing organisations. Whilst the growth in supply for housing is still in its infancy, any new housing opportunities will now be subject to the provisions regarding universal design, as described below.

Following the May 2013 Universal Design conference, attended by many DSAP members, a cross-council Universal Design Working Group is in the formative stage and will arrange to meet with the DSAP to present the group’s main focus areas once fully established. The group involves key operational areas of the Auckland Council family (transport, community development, human resources, communications, parks, built environment) with a focus on making tangible progress against issues raised by DSAP. We continue to look for ongoing opportunities to partner with experts in the field, and are currently looking at ways to partner with Lifemark Design in advance of the next Universal Design conference.

Accessible Information

Accessible public and personal information

(cf paragraph 14)

The latest development in relation to the accessibility of public and personal information is covered by the Accessible Information and Communication Guidelines which will soon be made available to all Auckland Council staff, and a copy forwarded to the DSAP for your information. The DSAP is again acknowledged for its contribution to the document along with other organisations and advisors. The guidelines provide best practice advice for creating accessible communication.

The following practical measures have been introduced during the last quarter of 2013:

• A training programme to up-skill Auckland Council staff, with a priority for the Communications and Public Affairs team. The team now act as advocates for accessible communication and are able to advise on colour contrast of online and print documents, the addition of video captions and translations. The next phase of training will cover key business partners, and communications staff in Council-Controlled Organisations (CCOs).

• Introducing a network of qualified ‘Accessibility Champions’ to inspire and support colleagues across departments.

• The introduction of standard templates for communication briefs to ensure that accessibility is a mandatory consideration for all new work. This includes prompts on printed documents to access large print versions (work is currently underway to increase the accessibility of the Auckland Council's mini-magazine OurAuckland by producing a large print version).

The Communication and Public Affairs team have put steps in place to maintain their knowledge of the latest developments in accessible communications. This will prepare the team for future changes as they continue to advocate for improving the accessibility of our communications.

Customer service information in accessible electronic formats

(cf paragraphs 15 & 16)

The above actions provide the first stage in making information fully accessible. Trained communications staff are working with our people across the organisation to improve information accessibility, including planning documents, advice on local activities and statements of personal information. For example, Watercare recently introduced electronic versions of water bills which were fully tested with screen reading software.

Website accessibility

(cf paragraph 17)

Auckland Council’s Information Services (IS) department will be working towards implementing the Accessible Information and Communication Guidelines.

Accessible Public Transport

Accessibility of public transport, buildings, facilities and information

(cf paragraph 18)

The Auckland Transport Board recently approved a Disability Policy. The policy is based on the existing principles and policies for disability access as set out in the Auckland Transport Code of Practice (ATCOP) and the Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP).

In addition to the public consultation on the RPTP and local consultation as services are planned, Auckland Transport (AT) works with the Transport Accessibility Advisory Group (TAAG), and also consults representatives of disability groups in the course of infrastructure design.

AT policy recognises the need to take specific actions to ensure that the transport system provides for the needs of people with disabilities. The policy and supporting actions are attached for your reference.

Accessible trains and buses

(cf paragraph 19)

All trains, at the moment, are provided with a 'wheelchair' ramp which can be deployed by a staff member as required. The introduction of the new electric trains (Electrical Multiple Units) from the second quarter of 2014 will increase the accessibility of trains with the introduction of level boarding on one carriage per 3-car unit.

With regard to buses, AT will ensure that the Vehicle Quality Standards are introduced as part of the newly implemented procurement programme. Many of the fleet already comply with the Vehicle Quality Standards and others will be eliminated by 2017 at the very latest. The nationally agreed standards for new buses being brought into the Auckland fleet requires them to have ducting to allow future technology upgrades such as automated progressive route information, like those offered on the three Link routes.

Talking signs and stop announcements

(cf paragraph 20)

The Link bus services already provide talking stop information and plans to extend this capability are included as part of the New Network, a simpler and more integrated public transport network for Auckland, which will begin its first stage of implementation in early 2015.

Currently, all loco hauled trains have pre-recorded and automated talking signs and talking stop announcements on them. The entire fleet has PA capability which is regularly used by on-board staff. The new electronic trains all come with automated talking signs and talking stop announcements with the last one due to enter service in the middle of 2015.

Inclusive Events and Arts and Culture

Council and council-supported events and facilities

(cf paragraphs 21-23)

The majority of public events delivered each year across Auckland are managed by a number of bodies, including Auckland Tourism Events and Economic Development (ATEED), Regional Facilities Auckland (RFA) and Community Development, Arts and Culture (CDAC). It is worth noting that due to the range of events and venues or facilities in use, the range of governance may vary.

Auckland Council has recently developed an Events Policy which guides the investment and delivery of events in Auckland. One of the principles within this policy is 'being inclusive, accessible and fair'. Auckland Council is always looking to strengthen relationships with organisations that can assist with the ongoing support and provision of inclusive events, for example Arts Access Aotearoa.

In order to address the accessibility of Auckland venues and facilities a number of changes and upgrades have been implemented. Recommendations for change were informed by guidance and policies, input from the Disability Programme Advisor, Paul Brown, who now provides advice and support on event accessibility and from a recent audit of Auckland facilities which was undertaken by Be. Accessible. The audit resulted in Auckland Art Gallery, The Edge and the Auckland Zoo receiving gold, bronze or silver ratings.

The following examples provide an indication of the scale and range of recent upgrades:

• Audio and signal performances, for example The Edge’s award winning SIGNAL programme.

• Arts access advocacy, including The Edge and Aotea Centre workshops and tours.

• Crowd management and planning, similar to the current accessibility planning for the Auckland Lantern Festival 2014.

• The provision of written text to support video content at Auckland Art Gallery.

• The free provision of mobility items including wheelchairs and scooters at Auckland Zoo.

• Provisions for drop-offs and pick-ups directly outside main entrances e.g. The Viaduct Events Centre.

• Wheelchair stair lifts e.g. ASB theatre recently fitted the lifts to provide access for the stalls and comply with the current Building Code.

• More accessible signage and brochures such as those fitted with the refurbishment of iSITEs.

• The provision of public event information made available through a range of communication channels.

ATEED’s investment in all events is targeted towards the achievement of four key outcomes of:

1. Increasing visitor nights

2. Auckland’s gross domestic product (GDP)

3. International exposure

4. Auckland’s liveability.

In regards to sponsored major events, ATEED’s investment is tied to the achievement of the four outcomes listed above and has limited ability to dictate operational policy and activity to the sponsored party. However, ATEED’s sponsorship contract includes a clause which requires the sponsored party to take all reasonable steps to ensure the event is delivered to high professional and commercial standards in accordance with best industry practice and in compliance with all relevant legislation.

Beyond this, there are no current funding agreements in place and although some partners do take reasonable steps to include persons of disabilities as a matter of course, this can be heavily dependent on building access and therefore outside their control.

Local Boards

Accessible and inclusive local, community environments

(cf paragraphs 24)

A strategic project is currently underway with a number of Local Boards to develop tailored Access Plans.

Waitematā Local Board member Chris Dempsey and Disability Programme Advisor, Paul Brown, recently presented Waitematā Local Board’s Access Plan to the DSAP. The plan was adopted by the Waitematā Local Board in February and focuses on accessible culture, communities (environment), communication and community engagement.

There will be some variance for the time frames and details of the plans adopted by each local board, with the following currently under development:

• Waiheke

• Waitākere Ranges

• Albert-Eden

• Māngere-Ōtāhuhu

• Hibiscus and Bays.

As part of the discovery stage for the development of each plan, Be. Accessible is working with each local board. This forms part of their strategic relationship which is presently due to run until June 2015.

Attachment 1 – Auckland Transport Disability Policy

Auckland Transport recognises the need to take specific actions to ensure that the transport system provides for the needs of people with disabilities.

Actions: In undertaking its functions and duties, Auckland Transport [AT] will:

1. Endorse the concept of the accessible journey as key to integrated AT planning for transport infrastructure and public transport services

2. In accordance with the principles set out in ATCOP [Auckland Transport Code of Practice], take steps to ensure the transport network is safe and accessible for all users by designing, building and maintaining infrastructure (including roads, footpaths, stations, interchanges and buildings) to ensure that all transport users have equal opportunities to travel

3. Continue to support consultation through the TAAG [Transport Accessibility Advisory Group] and ensure that disabled people and/or disability agencies are consulted either through the TAAG or directly when planning public transport infrastructure and services, and work with them to identify and resolve accessibility and safety issues

4. Ensure that all public consultation documents are provided in accessible formats to enable disabled people to participate fully

5. Identify target groups and areas where service and infrastructure planning can help people with disabilities and specify services (or specific elements of services) that must be operated by accessible vehicles, as stated in the RPTP [Regional Public Transport Plan]

6. Conduct an accessibility audit when public transport routes are reviewed or redesigned, to include infrastructure and walking access, to identify any accessibility shortfall and recommend areas for improvement as part of the overall network design, and to ensure that information is provided before changes are implemented

7. As set out in the RPTP, ensure that public transport vehicles and vessels meet required standards for disability access in compliance with NZTA [New Zealand Transport Agency] Requirements for Urban Buses, AT standards for ferries and AT’s EMU [Electrical Multiple Units ] – Technical Specifications

8. Ensure that services information is accessible and widely available by using appropriate formats and media including both visual and audio channels

9. Specifically consider the information needs of disabled people when network changes are proposed and implemented and when new infrastructure is provided or when improvements or changes to existing infrastructure are proposed

10. Continue to support the Total Mobility scheme and ensure that all drivers on Total Mobility services have specialist training in order to provide adequate and appropriate assistance to disabled people.

11. Provide concession fares on public transport services for Total Mobility card holders

12. As stated in the RPTP, work with operators and Auckland Transport facilities managers to ensure that training for drivers, crew and other staff in contact with the public includes appropriate assistance for disabled people and continue to require such training as a condition of service contracts

Disability Strategic Advisory Panel

28 April 2014

Item 6 - Update on Purpose, Fees and Selection Process

File No.: CP2014/08213

Purpose

1. To update the Panel on its purpose, fees to members and the selection process.

Executive Summary

Purpose of DSAP

2. At the 17 February 2014 meeting, the DSAP considered the Governing Body’s direction to panels and resolved to amend its purpose by adding “contribute to Council submissions, but do not submit independently to external bodies, except as agreed with the Mayor”.

3. The amended purpose would be:

a) identify and communicate to the Council, elected representatives and Council Controlled Organisations (CCOs) the interests and preferences of persons with disabilities in Auckland in relation to:

i. the content of the strategies, policies, plans, and bylaws; and

ii. any matter that the Panel considers to be of particular interest or concern to persons with disabilities in Auckland; and

b) advise the Mayor, the governing body, local boards, CCOs and Council of processes and mechanisms for engaging with persons with disabilities in Auckland.

c) contribute to Council submissions, but do not submit independently to external bodies, except as agreed with the Mayor.”

4. The Panel requested that the revised purpose be reconsidered at the 17 March meeting. There was insufficient time at the 17 March meeting to consider this item. It is intended that a revised purpose will be included in the revised Terms of Reference for DSAP.

Fees

5. The Panel requested that information be provided about the current fees for members of different panels. The previous fees and expenses arrangement for members of DSAP is set out in the Terms of Reference for the Disability Strategic Advisory Group. In summary, fee arrangements comprise: a meeting allowance of $235 per Panel meeting; a mileage allowance to persons appointed to and attending a Panel meeting (not exceeding $0.70 per kilometre for the first 5,000 kilometres); reimbursement for bus, rail, ferry and air travel expenses to a Panel meeting.

6. The following is a table of fees that were payable to members of different panels under the previous term of Auckland Council:

Panel

Type of fee

Amount

Ethnic Peoples, Pacific Peoples, Seniors and Disability Strategy Advisory Panels

Member meeting fee

Chairperson’s annual fee

$235 per meeting

$7,000

Youth Advisory Panel

Member meeting fee

Chairperson’s annual fee

Nil

7. In addition, members of the Ethnic and Pacific Peoples Advisory Panels were entitled to a communication allowance of $750 per annum per member.

8. A new schedule of fees is being developed and will be provided to the DSAP members as soon as it becomes available. It is understood that a report is being prepared for the Finance and Performance Committee meeting on 22 May 2014 which will propose a framework of fees for members of the panels. It is intended that the new schedule of fees will be included in the revised Terms of Reference for DSAP.

Selection process

9. At the 17 February 2014 meeting, the DSAP was informed about the selection process that is being used for the appointment of members of the Ethnic Peoples Panel, Pacific Peoples Panel and Seniors Panel. Information about that selection process is available at http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/EN/AboutCouncil/representativesbodies/advisorypanels/Documents/ethnicpeoplespacificpeoplesseniorsadvisorypanelsleaflet.pdf. This selection process is summarised below:

a) Applicants must complete an application form and provide a Curriculum Vitae, including references. Applicants will be assessed on how they demonstrate the following competencies:

· Ability to think strategically and critically on issues and trends for specific demographic communities and Auckland as a whole.

· Knowledge of the main issues for their communities, as well expertise in one or more issues of particular relevance/significance for that community.

· Sound understanding of community perspectives, dynamics, key organisations and networks.

· Experience of governance and advisory roles.

b) Applicants must be permanent NZ residents, live in Auckland, and be proficient in English. (NB Council employees – including employees of council controlled organisations CCOs – are ineligible for selection. Central Government employees will be assessed on a case-by-case basis).

c) Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by a selection panel made up of the Liaison Councillor for that particular advisory panel, a senior council officer and people providing community perspectives and expertise.

d) The selection panel will make recommendations to the Mayor, which will then be presented for endorsement to the Governing Body of the council.

e) Application forms will be available on-line or from council libraries and service centres.

10. It is confirmed that a consistent selection process is to be applied for the appointment process across the advisory panels.

11. DSAP members expressed an interest in the process for appointing the selection panel for making appointments. The selection panel is made up of the Liaison Councillor for the particular advisory panel, a senior council officer (not the Lead Support Officer for DSAP), and people providing community perspectives and expertise. The Manager Community & Cultural Strategy has a responsibility for the composition of the selection panel.

12. In light of the Chairperson’s intention to not seek reappointment, advice has been obtained about the process for appointment of a Chairperson. Previously the DSAG members appointed Dr Huhana as the chairperson at a DSAG meeting. The new selection process will mean that the selection panel will recommend an Interim Chair. This recommendation would be made to the Mayor and would be made official at a Governing Body meeting.

13. There would be the opportunity for DSAP to have its own selection process to appoint a more permanent Chair. The thinking behind this is that for the first couple of meetings there would be an Interim Chair to run the meetings and maybe at the second or third meeting an appointment could be made by the members once everyone has got to know each other a bit better.

14. More formal communications regarding the particular details of the selection process for the DSAP will be made available as preparations are made.

Recommendation/s

That the Disability Strategic Advisory Panel:

a) receive the Update on Purpose, Fees and Selection Process report.

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

Signatories

Author	Kevin Wright - Manager: Transport Strategy Lead Officer Support DSAP
Authoriser	Kevin Wright - Manager: Transport Strategy Lead Officer Support DSAP

Disability Strategic Advisory Panel

28 April 2014

Item 7 - Developing a Disability Policy

File No.: CP2014/08149

Purpose

1. To consider a proposal for Auckland Council to develop a Disability Policy.

Executive summary

2. At previous DSAP meetings there was discussion about the need for Auckland Council to develop a Disability Policy. Clive Lansink has developed a proposal for DSAP’s consideration (Attachment A). Comments from DSAP members are sought on this proposal.

3. Auckland Council’s process for approving the development of a Disability Policy is as follows:

a) The Policy Leadership Team, which is a cross-council officer group sponsored by Roger Blakeley, considers whether or not the Disability Policy should be added to the forward strategy and policy programme. The Team considers things like strategic alignment to the Auckland Plan and other strategies, legislative requirements, resources and priority in relation to other pieces of work.

b) The Policy Leadership Team would make a recommendation to the Community Development and Safety Committee.

c) The Community Development and Safety Committee would make a recommendation to the Regional Strategy and Policy Committee, which has responsibility for the strategy and policy programme.

4. If DSAP supports the proposal for development of a Disability Policy, then the above process could be initiated. This could result in the Disability Policy being developed over a period of 12 months (timing to be determined by the Regional Strategy and Policy Committee) and being adopted by Auckland Council. The timing would be unlikely to influence the activities and services that are currently being developed for the next 3 years as part of the Long Term Plan process. However, once adopted the Disability Policy could become an important guide to a whole of council approach to meeting the needs of people with disabilities.

5. In order to influence the council’s activities and services over the next 3 years, direction would need to be provided to council staff within the next two months. If DSAP supports the aspirational statements and particular directives in the attached paper, then DSAP may request that these are provided to council staff to influence the development of activities and services for the next 3 years.

Recommendation/s

That the Disability Strategic Advisory Panel:

a) consider approving a proposal for Auckland Council to develop a Disability Policy.

b) request the Chief Executive of Auckland Council to:

i) consider the Panel’s request for Auckland Council to develop a Disability Policy; and/or

ii) provide direction to staff across the council organisation to take into account the aspirational statements and the particular directives in the attached paper for incorporation in the ten year work programme for all council activities and services being developed for the draft Long Term Plan; and/or

iii) require ongoing reporting on how the needs of people with disabilities are addressed in all council activities and services.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a View	A Comprehensive Disability Strategy for Auckland	33

Signatories

Author	Kevin Wright - Manager: Transport Strategy Lead Officer Support DSAP
Authoriser	Kevin Wright - Manager: Transport Strategy Lead Officer Support DSAP

Disability Strategic Advisory Panel

28 April 2014

A Comprehensive Disability Strategy for Auckland

Submission By the Disability Strategic Advisory Panel (DSAP)

March 2014

· Recommendation

1 That the Disability Strategy Advisory Panel recommends to the Governing Body that Council works with DSAP, the disabled people of Auckland and other interested parties to develop a comprehensive strategy to ensure people with disabilities are fully included in all Council activities and services.

· Background

the Disability Strategy Advisory Panel was initially established in 2010. Its purpose is to provide strategic advice on pan-disability issues to the Mayor, governing body, local boards, Council Controlled Organisations (CCOs) and Council on:

b) • the interests and preferences of persons with disabilities in Auckland in relation to regional strategies, policies, plans, and bylaws of the Council;

c) • any other matters that the Panel considers to be of particular interest or concern to persons with disabilities in Auckland; and

d) • processes and mechanisms for engaging with persons with disabilities in Auckland.

We support Auckland's aspiration to be the world's most liveable city. A liveable city is one that is inclusive of all citizens, values participation, encourages social engagement and enables Barrier Free movement for everyone. Since its inception, the DSAP has had input into numerous plans, strategies and policies being developed for Auckland. We acknowledge that some progress is indeed being made in some areas towards achieving this vision for people with disabilities. This paper builds on our earlier submissions, and calls for a more strategic approach to be adopted. Auckland must act decisively if it is to really become more liveable for people with disabilities.

It is no longer appropriate to think of people with disabilities as being a distinct and separate sector within the general public. People with disabilities can be found throughout the entire community. We are tax payers, rate payers, customers, citizens, workers, residents, students at all levels of education, visitors, tourists, and so on. We aspire to participate fully in the community. We seek employment and educational opportunities like everyone else. We contribute like everyone else to the economic life of the city.

Ideally, there should be no need for a strategy focusing specifically on people with disabilities. All the major strategies, plans and policies that guide how Auckland develops and operates should address our needs simply because we are members of the whole public community Auckland serves.

However we have identified that a clear strategy is needed to encourage Auckland to more directly accommodate the needs of people with disabilities. This strategy must focus Auckland's attention on altering certain policies and practices over time that tend to exclude rather than include us. Some of these "sticking points" can be found in existing policies that have not as yet been reviewed by the DSAP. Other sticking points arise from current operational practices that, albeit unintentionally, contribute to our exclusion. We call on Auckland to commit to working with the disabled community to develop a comprehensive strategy to remove the barriers that currently prevent us from being fully included in this most vibrant city.

In early 2012, the DSAP circulated a paper in which we introduced our group to the wider Council, and listed some short-term steps that we believed Council could and should take to deliver effective services to all members of the public, including people with disabilities. Then in October 2012, we wrote to the Chief Executive to ask for a summary of current strategies and plans Council has in place to ensure its services will be fully inclusive of people with disabilities. We recognised that achieving real progress towards Auckland becoming a fully accessible city may take a number of years. We asked for this information to help us recognise all the efforts Council is already making to ensure its services are fully inclusive, and to help lead to the development of a comprehensive disability strategy with time frames to achieve a truly accessible city.

Unfortunately, despite the resolutions of the Governing Body at its meeting on 23 April 2013 requesting the Chief Executive to provide a cross-council response to our points, we have received no response to our questions. This has rather frustrated our efforts to develop a more comprehensive picture of what is needed for Auckland to become more liveable for people with disabilities.

Auckland has a great opportunity to show leadership and set a new high standard in how cities can be disability friendly even within today's legislation and within current resources. We urge Council members, management and staff to see meeting the needs of people with disabilities as an integral part of delivering services to the public in general. No longer should the Council's ability to meet our needs be dependent on and perhaps limited to special allocations of disability-related funding.

· Aspirational Statements

The following statements illustrate what we aspire to as people with disabilities living in a modern society.

f) • people with disabilities have the right to carry out all our everyday transactions with the same equity and dignity as everyone else.

g) • People with disabilities live throughout the community and we should be able to easily find affordable and accessible housing in all neighbourhoods.

h) • People with disabilities should have access to the same information and communications from Council as everyone else.

i) • People with disabilities need to be able to move freely and easily throughout the urban environment like everyone else.

j) • People with disabilities can be found succeeding at all levels of education.

k) • People with disabilities have the same aspirations as everyone else to be fully and productively employed.

l) • People with disabilities should be able to participate fully in the social life of the city.

m) • People with disabilities like to go to concerts, museums, the theatre and to other artistic and entertainment events like everyone else.

n) • People with disabilities can be found actively participating in and contributing to Auckland's local and neighbourhood communities.

· Developing a Comprehensive Disability Strategy

Auckland must now adopt a committed and strategic approach to meeting our needs if we as people with disabilities are to achieve our aspirations. The strategy we envisage should be well researched and considered, and achievable within agreed resources and with agreed milestones and time frames. The Chief Executive should be directly responsible for overseeing the implementation of the strategy.

Currently DSAP does not have the resources to develop the strategy. However with appropriate resources to carry out consultation and consider information received, we anticipate a comprehensive strategy could be developed and ready for formal adoption within 12 months.

The strategy must at least address the following points which we have so far identified as crucial if Auckland is to really deliver on its aspiration of being a truly liveable city for everyone including people with disabilities.

· Accessible Environment

It is crucial that Auckland's physical environment is accessible to people with disabilities, if we are to achieve our aspirations to be fully included in city life. We need to be able to move readily and freely throughout the city and right throughout public buildings.

Unfortunately at this stage, relevant legislation such as the Resource Management Act 1991, the Building Act 2004, New Zealand Standard 4121 and associated regulations do not currently reflect all the aspirations of people with disabilities. But even under the current legislation, there are too many instances of new or recently refurbished buildings that in our view do not comply with accessibility requirements. Until this legislation can be fully reviewed and updated, we would urge Council staff to take a liberal and holistic view of the legislation when issuing such documents as resource and building consents.

Auckland must review all relevant policies that impact on the physical environment to ensure the needs of people with disabilities are fully accounted for. For example, policies that determine which intersections should be controlled by traffic lights seem to depend largely on an assessment of vehicle traffic, with apparently little regard to the needs of the neighbourhood and of pedestrians. An example of such policies at work would appear to be the Onehunga shopping area, which in recent years has changed from being a pedestrian only mall to now being a through-way for traffic with roundabouts rather than controlled intersections. Despite the development of a new railway station and transport hub in the area, which ought to encourage patronage from people using public transport, the result is a shopping area that is particularly disability unfriendly and which even non-disabled people find difficult to negotiate. Surely this is an example of Auckland developing in the wrong direction.

At the same time, staff responsible for maintenance of footpaths, parks, reserves and Council buildings etc. must become fully aware of the needs of people with disabilities and do what they can within current resources to ensure the general urban environment is disability friendly. Areas of Auckland are notorious for uneven and badly maintained footpaths and overhanging trees that are hazardous not just to people with disabilities but to all pedestrians.

· Urban Design

People with disabilities live throughout the community and we should be able to easily find affordable and accessible housing in all neighbourhoods. We no longer live in institutions. There is a need for adequate stocks of accessible housing.

A liveable and accessible city will emerge only if the Unitary Plan backs planners and consents officers with regulatory controls and incentives to match Council's aspirations for inclusion. Everyone will benefit. An up-front commitment by Council to access with dignity for people of all ages and abilities is needed in the final Unitary Plan. The long-term liveability of Auckland depends on having the courage to commit to barrier-free design and project delivery.

We believe that even within today's legislation, Council can work proactively with major developers to ensure all new subdivisions have at least a proportion of houses or apartments that are accessible and disability friendly, or which can be easily made so. With a steadily ageing population, it should be understood that designing the urban environment so it meets our needs ultimately benefits everyone.

· Accessible Information and Communications

People with disabilities should have access to the same information and communications as everyone else. Nowadays it can be safely said that practically all information published by the Council and its CCOs, and almost all items of personal correspondence, originate on a computer. People with various disabilities can readily access computerised information through a variety of end user equipment, provided that information is accessible.

We note with pleasure the efforts Council is already making in this respect. Council has developed and is continuing to improve its operational guidelines for the production of accessible documents in various formats. We noted with appreciation that Council went to considerable effort to ensure people with disabilities would be able to access the draft Unitary Plan in a variety of ways. Our Auckland is another good example of Council publishing information in multiple formats, including making it available on the Blind Foundation's Telephone Information Service.

But there are many examples of communications which are generally inaccessible to many people with disabilities, including rates bills, water bills and even registering a dog. Local information is particularly inaccessible, such as knowing when rubbish collections will take place in an area or being advised of local disruptions to normal services.

Auckland must ensure that well established standards and principles are followed through all stages of the information production process, that maximise accessibility of information to people using a variety of equipment. Auckland must recognise that its communications with the public and individuals covers the whole spectrum from carrying out everyday personal transactions such as paying rates and other charges to participating in the democratic process. Therefore Auckland and Council Controlled Organisations must follow principles of accessibility with respect to all aspects of its websites, documents, reports, brochures, bills, personal correspondence, and other forms of Council communications. Accessibility of information need not be expensive if the right decisions are made at all steps throughout the information production process, and often it is far more expensive to retrospectively make information accessible if correct decisions were not made early in the process.

In practical terms, Council must give thought to how it can deliver its public information through multiple channels and formats, including electronic accessible formats, and in plain language and sign language.

Council must also ensure the front line call centre staff are well versed with the kinds of issues likely to be raised by people with disabilities, so these can be handled most effectively when they arise.

· Accessible and Effective Public Transport

If people with disabilities are to live, work, learn, do our everyday business and recreate in a modern city such as Auckland, then we need to be able to move freely and easily throughout the urban environment like everyone else. Many people with disabilities are unable to drive and are fully reliant on public transport.

We acknowledge real efforts are being made to address the transport needs of people with disabilities. But it is apparent from the proceedings of Auckland Transport's Transport Accessibility and Advisory Group, and from our own lived experience, that there are many on-going difficulties that are taking some time to overcome that seriously detract from people with disabilities being able to easily move throughout the area.

Auckland Council must direct Auckland Transport to develop its own comprehensive plan complete with milestones and time frames, to show how and when it will make public transport fully accessible to people with disabilities. Auckland must ensure the needs of people with disabilities are factored into all levels of planning and implementation of transport services. As vehicles are replaced and upgraded, Auckland Transport should ensure they are physically accessible and equipped with signs and other equipment so people with disabilities can make full use of them with full independence and dignity in the same way as anyone else. This includes knowing which is the right vehicle to use, getting on and off, paying the fare, finding a suitable seat and knowing when to get off. Auckland Transport must also ensure physical facilities such as terminals and bus stops and information such as timetabling are accessible to people with disabilities. Auckland must also remain committed to an effective Total Mobility taxi scheme to provide other transport options for people with disabilities

· Inclusive Events and Access to Arts and Culture

People with disabilities want to participate fully in the social life of the city. We like to go to concerts, museums, the theatre and to other artistic and entertainment events like everyone else. We acknowledge Council's commitment to a comprehensive events policy, and we hope this will lead to people with disabilities participating more in such events, not just as members of the public but also as artistic performers.

Council staff responsible for public events or granting permits must take all reasonable steps to ensure events cater for the needs of people with disabilities. As a matter of course, when allocating funding and/or issuing permits for events, Council staff must give due consideration to aspects such as accessible information and publicity, sign language, guides and helpers, and accessible portaloos.

Auckland must ensure organisations that receive Council funding or which use Council owned venues will take all reasonable steps to include people with disabilities in their activities. Strategies to achieve this may include providing sign language and audio description on certain sittings, making ushers available who can give extra help, and targeted advertising. We note with pleasure that The Edge, which manages some public venues for the Council, is developing such strategies.

Auckland must also ensure its venues are accessible to people with disabilities. Certainly many such venues are accessible. The DSAP has noted however that some venues such as swimming facilities tend not to be accessible or are not properly equipped for people with disabilities. Venues such as concert halls, meeting rooms and recreational facilities are there for public use, and over time Auckland must make every effort to ensure all such facilities are accessible to people with disabilities so we can have the same opportunity to use them as everyone else.

· Local Boards

People with disabilities can be found actively participating in and contributing to Auckland's local and neighbourhood communities. Council must ensure Local Boards have clear objectives and obligations in their plans designed to ensure local community environments are fully accessible and inclusive. We note with pleasure the recent work done to develop an accessibility plan for the Waitemata Local Board and hope that this will serve as a good example for other areas.

· Management and Reporting

A comprehensive disability strategy will have little practical effect unless there is clear reporting to the governing body and to the general public on how Auckland is implementing the strategy and progressing towards being fully inclusive.

Auckland must build into the Performance agreements for the Chief Executive, key management staff and CCOs, an obligation to report on the strategies and procedures that are implemented to ensure the needs of people with disabilities are met.

· Valuing the Voice of People with Disability

A comprehensive disability strategy cannot be developed without the voice of people with disabilities. Auckland must actively involve the entire disabled community. This involves gaining a good understanding of the various groups and organisations that make up the disability community, how they differ and how they should be included in consultation. The DSAP can help ensure consultation with the disability community is effective and fully representative of our diverse needs.

Disability Strategic Advisory Panel

28 April 2014

Proposed Work Programme DSAP March 2014 to March 2015

The following proposed work programme is focused on planning for an accessible and inclusive Auckland. The work programme utilises the Panel’s expertise, available resources and links with the wider community.

Indicative time frames are provided when work by DSAP would be required.

Community Facilities

Input to the Council’s Community Facilities Network Plan to ensure universal access in design of community facilities and connections thereto. [April to July 2014]

Input to the Council’s Public Open Space Policy and Programme and Sport and Recreation Strategic Action Plan to ensure universal access in programme. [March to April 2014]

Urban Design Panel

Dialogue with the Urban Design Panel to ensure expertise and culture of universal access in the Urban Design Panel’s work. [Ongoing]

Transport

Influencing the culture of Auckland Transport to support universal access in its designs.

[Ongoing]

Dialogue with the Transport Accessibility Advisory Group. [Ongoing]

Feedback on Auckland Transport Code of Practice. [March 2014 and/or ongoing]

Housing

Input to the Council’s submission on the Building Code Disability Access Review.

[March to April 2014]

Community Summits

Universal Access Design Community Summit and input to draft Long Term Plan.

[@ September 2014]

Community Summit on a specific topic. [@ May 2015]

Input to Accessible Employment Forum as required. [May 2014]

Accessible Information and Communications

Input to Inclusive Engagement Guide. [March to April 2014]

Input to Accessible Event Guidelines . [? 2014]

Local Boards

Letter to Local Boards setting out priorities for addressing accessibility issues for persons with disabilities. [April 2014]

Encouraging Local Boards to seek advice on disability/access matters from suitable agencies and groups in the community. [June 2014]

Other Council Strategies and Plans

Input to position paper on current activity, opportunities and priorities for the Council in relation to access, inclusion and design and input to draft Long Term Plan.

[April to June 2014]

Input to a proposed Council Disability Policy. [Ongoing]

Input to Family and Sexual Violence Strategic Action Plan. [May to June 2014]

Other

DSAP may be involved in other activities as it determines in response to important issues raised by its communities or by Auckland Council. [Ongoing]

Disability Strategic Advisory Panel

28 April 2014

Date : 5^th April 2014

From : Colleen Brown and Ezekiel Robson

To ; Mary Hay, Local Board Engagement Advisor, Manurewa & Papakura Local Boards

Re : Needs of the elderly and people with disabilities in Manurewa and Papakura Local Board areas

As two members of Auckland Council’s Disability Strategic Advisory Panel, and with lived experiences of disability, living in the Manurewa-Papakura Ward area, we would like to make the following observations and recommendations.

First of all, congratulations for recognising the varying and diverse needs that exist in our community, by ensuring there is a focus on input by older people, and those with disabilities.

We trust that all pertinent information about the consultation process, the means to submit feedback, and the draft plans themselves are available in a range of accessible formats, to maximise participation. This means electronic documents compatible with screen reading software, Easy Read or plain language summaries, and methods of communicating with NZ Sign Language.

People with disabilities should have ready access to the same information and communications from Auckland Council as everyone else, and at the same time as everyone else. We would recommend a continuing commitment on the part of the Local Boards to inclusive practice around accessible information for all public documents, notices and consultation activities.

We believe that the systemic and practical approach to accessibility matters and concerns as outlined in the Waitemata Local Board Plan for 2014 (see below) is a good pathway to follow.

Accessible Auckland – Waitemata Local Board 2014

We will support and develop an environment that is accessible for people of all abilities, ages and cultures to enjoy and participate in. Twenty per cent of the population have a differing ability, while 80 per cent will experience periods in which they are disabled. This may be as a part of growing older or may be temporarily reduced mobility due to injury or as a parent with a child in a pushchair. We will support the aims of the Be. Institute to enable a more accessible society with a focus on the built environment, information access, inclusion of disabled people in employment and the community, and changing attitudes and behaviours. The Waitemata Local Board is committed to becoming an accessible board and area. We will act as an advocate and champion for the rest of Auckland to become more accessible.

It is relatively easy to highlight individual people’s needs about a particular access issue or concern. A Local Board can then potentially ‘fix’ that one issue or concern or indeed a number of them, without addressing the systemic factors which re-enforce barriers for those with on-going access needs in a community.

The Disability Strategic Advisory Panel’s desire is not to propose special provisions or budgets to address ‘disability needs’, but to highlight the necessity to factor accessibility into all ‘mainstream’ activities. It is no longer appropriate to think of people with disabilities as being a distinct and separate sector within the general public. Children, young people and adults with disabilities can be found throughout the entire community as residents, ratepayers, customers, students at all levels of education, tourists etc. People with disabilities in Manurewa-Papakura aspire to participate fully in social, cultural, sporting, employment and educational opportunities like everyone else.

A significant barrier to participation is lack of access to buildings that all people can enter, use and leave with dignity. Only comprehensive and systemic auditing will ensure an accessible journey to and unencumbered use of civic amenities such as libraries, swimming pools, sports grounds and community facilities by people with disabilities as both participants and spectators.

There are many areas in Manurewa and Papakura which deny or limit access to people with disabilities and the elderly. For example, historical poor planning means pedestrian access can be fraught with danger for people using wheelchairs or a walking stick; there are limited opportunities for hearing impaired people to cross main arterial routes safely with assistance of vibrating traffic/crossing phase signals; there are limited bus stops fitted with sound prompts for bus arrival times for vision impaired residents, playgrounds may not be connected to the footpath for easy access, or provide nearby seating for disabled parents supervising their children, or for those prone to fatigue; information in libraries is generally targeted to a visual audience with few technical opportunities for vision impaired people, or those with an intellectual disability.

In light of Special Housing Areas in Weymouth and Takanini, it is important to note that people with disabilities live throughout the community in a variety of circumstances, including being parents of children, or living with extended family members. People with disabilities should be able to find affordable and accessible housing easily in all neighbourhoods, and this housing should be capable of adaptation as necessary across the life span. The pre-dominant design of Special Housing Area accommodation should not impose unusual arrangements on families, i.e. mostly consisting of multi-level homes which depending on layout of bedrooms and bathrooms either eliminates such housing as an option, or restricts the disabled person to either the upper or lower levels, potentially separating them from their family members for many day-to-day tasks.

The Waitemata Local Board is recommending in its local plan to commit $50,000 annually to make sure their vision is realised.

Become an accessible local board and area Lead and facilitate $50,000 Ongoing (page25)

We would recommend that the Manurewa and Papakura Local Boards follow a similar vision to Waitemata Local Board in partnership with the Be. Institute to realise such a plan in a staged incremental manner, and/or engage and meaningfully collaborate with people with disabilities, their representative organisations and supporters, and the Disability Strategic Advisory Panel, for a more inclusive, accessible region.

With kindest regards,

Colleen Brown & Ezekiel Robson

Chairperson	Dr Huhana Hickey
Deputy Chairperson	Colleen Brown, MNZM, JP
Members	Sandra Budd
	David Hughes
	Tania Kingi
	Clive Lansink
	Don McKenzie, CNZM, OBE
	Dr Terry O'Neill
	Ezekiel Robson
	Susan Sherrard
Liaison Councillor	Sharon Stewart, QSM

Author	Mike Giddey - Democracy Advisor
Authoriser	Kevin Wright - Manager: Transport Strategy Lead Officer Support DSAP