Official launch of People for Us peer visiting service

People for Us is a peer visiting service for disabled people living in community residential homes across Aotearoa. The service is funded by Disability Support Services and delivered by People First New Zealand, Te Ahi Kaa Indigenous Solutions, Vaka Tautua. The official launch was on Monday 31 August, hosted by Disability Support Services at the Ministry of Social Development in Wellington. This milestone marks an important step in making sure disabled people living in homes funded by Disability Support Services are living a good life, getting good support, and staying safe. People for Us peer workers are trained disabled people who visit disabled adults, tāngata whaikaha Māori, and Tagata Sa'ilimalo. During visits, peer workers take the time to listen, talking with people about their lives, support, safety, rights, and choices, and using what they hear to help drive positive, long-term change. Speaking at the launch, the Minister for Disability Issues Hon Louise Upston said: "To the peer workers, you are what makes this service powerful. Your lived experience and understanding build the trust that helps disabled people speak up, access support, and achieve the outcomes that matter most to them."