Care On Call

26/03/2026

From 1 April 2026, people using flexible funding through Disability Support Services (DSS) will have more choice and control over how they use their funding for disability supports.

Here’s what’s changing:
• Flexible funding budgets will stay the same
• Purchasing rules will be removed
• Funding must still be used for the purpose outlined in each person’s plan
• A small number of items will still not be allowed or may require approval
• More support will be available to help people plan and manage their funding

If you already receive flexible funding, there’s nothing you need to do to prepare for these changes.

These updates build on earlier improvements, including the introduction of a nationally consistent assessment approach in February 2026, and reflect valuable feedback from the disability community.

Disability Support Services have provided Easy Read and Accessible fact sheets on the changes, which can be accessed here 👇
https://www.disabilitysupport.govt.nz/disabled-people/improvements-to-disability-support-services/marchapril-2026-factsheet

For further information, check out the links below:
👉 https://www.disabilitysupport.govt.nz/disabled-people/improvements-to-disability-support-services/flexible-funding
👉 https://mailchi.mp/comms.disabilitysupport.govt.nz/newsletter-for-providers-of-disability-support-services-10-march-55750?e=5f6b32e5f5

Changes from 1 April 2026 will give more choice, control, certainty, and continuity for disabled people who use flexible funding.

13/03/2026

Our Waikato and Central teams had a great time at the Show Your Ability Roadshow last week!

It’s always such a great opportunity to connect with people in the community, see what's on offer, and share more about how we can support you. Thanks to everyone who stopped by for a chat, we loved meeting you! 😊

03/03/2026

Care On Call were proud to support the Multiple Sclerosis Auckland Butterfly Release event!
Our Auckland Client Services Manager, John, had the pleasure of attending late last month, and it was a beautiful day for the whole whānau. The butterfly release was a truly special moment, shared by so many who came out in support. Check out these beautiful pictures John captured!
Congratulations to MS Auckland on hosting such a successful and meaningful event 🧡

27/02/2026

This month we’re celebrating a huge milestone: General Manager Christine’s 10‑year anniversary with Care On Call. 🌟🎆

Over the past decade, Christine has helped shape Care On Call into one of Aotearoa’s most trusted providers, leading with kindness, hard work, and a deep empathy for both our kiritaki and our kaimahi.

The strength and warmth of the team is a real reflection of the dedication and support Christine brings into the workplace every day. She creates space for people to grow, offers steady guidance when it’s needed, and fosters a culture built on trust and encouragement, and it shows in everything we do together.

Christine, thank you for ten years of leadership, wisdom, and heart. We’re so grateful for you, and we’re excited for all that’s still ahead! 💙🩷

18/02/2026

Multiple Sclerosis Auckland has organised an amazing Family Fun Day this Sunday, and it’s truly an event you won’t want to miss!
We’re so happy to be part of supporting this wonderful community gathering, and even more excited for the butterfly release! 🦋
Bring the whānau and join us at the Auckland Botanic Gardens this Sunday for a day full of fun and celebration 🧡

11/02/2026

Auckland Pride Month is in full swing, and the D*List has pulled together an awesome lineup of disability‑ and neurodivergent‑friendly events happening across the city. It’s an amazing resource if you’re looking for low‑sensory options, creative and crafty activities, or chances to connect with like‑minded people in welcoming spaces 🌈
A perfect way to celebrate Pride while finding events that truly work for you and your needs; check it out below! 👇

It’s Auckland Pride season! The D*List has curated a list of accessible, joyful events happening throughout February to enjoy. Happy Pride!

04/02/2026

Waitangi Day is tomorrow, and we encourage our kiritaki and kaimahi to get involved in a local community event if you can. Firstport has pulled together an awesome list of events happening across the motu; take a look below! 👇
https://firstport.co.nz/item/event/waitangi-day-2026-around-aotearoa

If you’re at the Treaty Grounds, they’ve also shared a helpful article with accessibility information to support your visit:
https://firstport.co.nz/item/event/waitangi-festival-26

Wishing everyone a meaningful and enjoyable Waitangi Day ☀️🌿

Find your nearest Waitangi Day celebration.

04/02/2026

A free online presentation is coming up for disabled young people and their families who are preparing for life after school. The Transition Collaboration group — who have supported families for over 10 years — will be delivering a practical, informative 2‑hour Zoom session. Although the presenters are Auckland‑based, the information is useful for whānau across Aotearoa.

Topics include transitioning out of school, ORS and non‑ORS pathways, transport options, Work and Income supports, community engagement, Disability Support Services, living options, and legal considerations.

There are eight sessions available throughout 2026, and you only need to register for one.

👇 Register here:
https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/o/disability-journey-into-adulthood-new-zealand-109700317271

👇 Learn more on their page:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/disabilityjourneyintoadulthood

Feel free to register if this could support you or your whānau!

14/01/2026

Over the New Year, our Central Client Services Manager, Emma, celebrated an incredible 10 years with Care on Call!

Since joining us in December 2015, Emma has worn many hats; starting in an administrative role within our accounts team before moving into coordination for the Central region. In 2021, she stepped into the role of Accounts and Finance Manager, and in October 2023, took the leap into the role of Client Services Manager for the Central and Taranaki regions.

We’re incredibly grateful for the dedication, versatility, and expertise Emma has brought to every role she’s held, and we’re so pleased to have her as part of the Care on Call team. Tēnā rawa atu koe i te mahi nui - thank you for your great work!

19/12/2025

As we wrap up 2025, we want to take a moment to reflect on what an incredible year it’s been for our Care on Call team.

This year has been full of growth, none of which would have been possible without our amazing care staff and office team. Your dedication, compassion, and tireless mahi make a real difference every single day, helping our kiritaki and whānau live well with care, dignity, and respect.

To our staff: thank you for the heart you bring to your work and the care you demonstrate everyday in our communities. We are so grateful to work alongside you.

As we look ahead to 2026, we’re excited for what’s to come in our mission to provide high-quality, person-centred care together.

We wish all of our kiritaki and staff a restful and joyful holiday period spent with loved ones.
Meri Kirihimete me te Hape Nū Ia 🎄🎆

17/12/2025

✨ Coordinator of the Year Award ✨

We are overjoyed to announce that our Senior Coordinator, Jessica, is the very first recipient of our Coordinator of the Year Award! 🏆

This award goes to someone who truly goes above and beyond every day; and Jess is that person. Whether she’s supporting clients and carers, guiding colleagues, or helping the wider service, she does it all with dedication, professionalism, and heart.

This year had its challenges, but Jess faced every one with resilience, determination, and reliability. Her leadership, insight, and genuine care make her not just an amazing coordinator, but an extraordinary person.

Jess, thank you for everything you do. Your hard work, heart, and dedication do not go unnoticed; you are truly deserving of this recognition, and we are so proud to have you on our team! 💙🩷

27/11/2025

Justus, one of our amazing kiritaki, has recently shared his experience of having a stroke at just 18 years old. His symptoms were initially mistaken for intoxication in a nightclub; a misunderstanding that highlights how easily stroke can be overlooked in younger people.

Since then, Justus has navigated a long journey of recovery, adaptation, and rebuilding life after a major health event. By choosing to speak openly about what happened, he’s helping raise awareness that stroke can affect anyone, and that recognising the signs and acting quickly is crucial.

You can read his full story here 👇

Justus Smith had a stroke when he was 18. He wants people to know that stroke can happen to anyone, including young people.