#collaborACTION with New Zealand Disability Support Network

Le Va, in partnership with New Zealand Disability Support Network (NZDSN) will deliver three disability focused, Engaging Pasifika Cultural Competency programmes in February 2016.  This Engaging Pasifika programme will be for a blend of frontline staff and managers from the disability sector in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.   

More than 150 people working in the disability sector have undertaken the Engaging Pasifika programme since July 2014. Training was held in Northland, Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch and most of these programmes were co-facilitated by members of the Faiva Ora Leadership Group. Many were also specifically for Disability Support Services (DSS) providers and organisations wanting to improve engagement with Pasifika clients, their families and communities.

The NZDSN is an incorporated society of members, represented by a Board of Governance. All members of the network are from within the disability sector.  Earlier this year, NZDSN connected with Le Va with the purpose of working together to increase Pasifika engagement.

We’ve worked together on some dates for Engaging Pasifika training for the disability workforce. The NZDSN is now promoting three training opportunities on its website and in its latest newsletter – inviting members or non-members of the network alike to express their interest, and attend the programme. 

To register for one of the Engaging Pasifika disability programmes in your area, please visit the NZDSN website. And remember to be quick, because spaces are limited!

Our work with the NZDSN aligns with the implementation of the Faiva Ora National Pasifika Disability Plan, focusing on enhancing access to the right services for Pasifika people with disabilities and, when they do access, improving the quality of disability support services for them and their families. Through the programme, Disability Support Services can increase their responsiveness to the needs of families, carers and Pasifika with disability.

Le Va also provides tools and resources to the disability support workforce that further complement cultural responsiveness – such as our Organisational Guidelines and Words Matter guides. 

We’re really excited about the February 2016 workshops, and look forward to working in partnership with NZDSN in future endeavours!