Exploring Choice in Community Living (CiCL) in New Zealand
Exploring Choice in Community Living (CiCL) in New Zealand
Choice in Community Living (CiCL) is an innovative initiative in New Zealand that empowers disabled individuals to live independently in their communities. It offers an alternative to traditional residential care by providing greater control over where and how people live, with flexible support tailored to their needs.
What is Choice in Community Living?
CiCL enables individuals with significant disabilities to:
- Choose their living environment: Decide where and with whom they want to live.
- Select their support services: Tailor services to suit their goals and preferences.
- Manage their budgets: Plan and direct funding to best meet their daily living needs.
This model reflects the principles of Enabling Good Lives (EGL), promoting autonomy, inclusion, and self-determination.
Eligibility for CiCL
To access CiCL, individuals must:
- Live in a region where CiCL is available (currently Auckland, Waikato, Hutt, Otago, and Southland).
- Be eligible for disability support services through a local Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC) organisation.
- Meet one of the following criteria:
- Transitioning from a residential care facility to independent living.
- Living at home with high support needs and seeking to move out.
- Facing an unsustainable living situation but preferring independent community living over residential care.
CiCL Providers in New Zealand
A range of organisations provide CiCL support, each offering unique services and approaches:
- CCS Disability Action: A trusted national organisation providing support for disabled people to live independently, including CiCL services across multiple regions. (ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz)
- Renaissance Group: Offers person-centred CiCL services with an emphasis on empowering people to manage their living arrangements and support networks. (renaissancegroup.co.nz)
- Te Roopu Taurima: Specialises in supporting Māori and non-Māori disabled individuals to live independently, incorporating culturally appropriate care. (terooputaurima.org.nz)
- Geneva Healthcare: Provides a flexible range of disability and community living supports tailored to individual goals and lifestyles. (genevahealth.com)
- NZCL (New Zealand Community Living): Focuses on enabling disabled people to live fulfilling lives within their communities through personalised support. (nzcl.nz)
Benefits of Choice in Community Living
- Increased independence: People choose where and how they live.
- Flexible support: Tailored to individual routines, preferences, and cultural needs.
- Community inclusion: Enables meaningful participation in local life.
How to Access CiCL
- Contact your local NASC service: They will assess eligibility and explain options.
- Develop a personal support plan: Set goals and outline the supports needed.
- Choose a CiCL provider: Select an organisation that aligns with your values and preferences.
Conclusion
Choice in Community Living offers a powerful alternative for disabled people seeking to live independently in New Zealand. With providers like CCS Disability Action, Renaissance Group, Te Roopu Taurima, Geneva Healthcare, and NZCL, individuals and families have access to a range of trusted services designed to support autonomy and inclusion.
For more information, speak with your local NASC or visit the provider websites to explore CiCL options.
