Recommendation #1

Mandatory yearly training on disability inclusion for Realtors, Kaianga Ora, Councils and Private Landlords

Most people don’t know how to work with us or what to do with us when we are looking for housing, they seem like they don’t trust that we are capable of looking after ourselves and the space we live in.

Roadblocks: Funding to design and implement this training, along with having enough trainers to support the implementation of this recommendation.

Enablers: If tied to the employment recommendation, disabled people could be part of the delivery of this training and development.

Recommendation #2

The creation of design templates for accessibility

Ensure that property developers and councils are both aware of universal design features and are implementing them without just doing the bare minimum.

Roadblocks: Adding accessible design features to a building can cost more time and money, meaning that people are less likely to opt to build a universally accessible space.

Enablers: Work with disabled artists and the creative sector to create accessible designs that are affordable and beautiful.

Recommendation #3

Establish a accreditation scheme so we know which realtors, housing organisations, and property managers are understanding of inclusivity and accessibility.

Accreditation is a key theme throughout the recommendations. The young people could see throughout their discussions that if business or services had accreditation for their work in the disability world, then there would be opportunities to increase capability.

Roadblocks: Creation of accreditation schemes for housing could be difficult and compete with some laws that govern certain industries.

Enablers: If accreditation was pitched as a voluntary programme and people could be recognized or honored for their endevours to become more accessible or inclusive, it would build a movement of change rather than change being enforced upon the sector.