I am currently in the process of gathering documentation for Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ), to prove I still have a permanent disability, via the infamous 'Disability Allowance Renewal' form.

Why does WINZ insist on proof of this unchanging situation, every two years, with the accompanying threat of losing part of my benefit - my only income - if I do not, or cannot, comply?

I would like disability allowances for permanently disabled people, to be marked by their General Practice doctor - the ones who know our conditions best - as "Never Review" and to be treated as such. Disabled people should be trusted to provide WINZ with any information required about changes in costs.

I want the new accessibility legislation to bring positive changes in the policies and attitudes of all government departments, especially WINZ.

This is a story about the barriers many face. We're sharing it because we want a law that puts accessibility at the heart of an inclusive Aotearoa New Zealand.

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