New Zealand

The Self-Directed Support (SDS) Network Aotearoa is a collective of individuals, providers, and advocates committed to embedding genuine self-direction within funded health and disability support services across Aotearoa New Zealand.

The Self-Directed Support (SDS) Network Aotearoa exists to promote, support, and strengthen the implementation and practice of self-directed support across Aotearoa New Zealand. 

It seeks to empower individuals, families, and communities to exercise choice and control over their lives and the services they use,

Carers are foundational to the sustainability of New Zealand’s health and disability systems. Without unpaid carers, these systems would not function.
The New Zealand, Self-Directed Support Network will have the following as primary objectives:

Promote best practice in self-directed support and independent living. This will be based on the International Standards for Self-Directed Support developed by the SDS Network International.

Facilitate knowledge sharing, peer learning, and collaboration across the health, disability, education and social support sector in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Act as an independent voice and advocate for policy and system reforms that expand self-direction in social support.- Support local organisations and individuals to access training, funding, and resources.

 Connect with SDS Network International to contribute to and benefit from international developments.

SDS Network Aotearoa commits to:

Upholding the principles of co-production/co-design with service users and their whanau. 

Promote and advocate/lobby for choice, control, transparency, and human rights in all iterations of care and support and service provision in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Promoting inclusive, person-centred, and culturally appropriate approaches.

Localising SDS concepts to reflect te ao Māori and the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.