📢 Our Submission on the Disability Support Services Bill

The Head and Neck Cancer Support Network Trust has made a submission on the Disability Support Services Bill currently before Parliament.

Many people living with and beyond head and neck cancer experience long-term disabilities affecting speech, swallowing, eating, breathing, hearing, communication, employment, and everyday life. These challenges can continue long after treatment has ended.

In our submission, we have asked Parliament to ensure that people who acquire disabilities through cancer are fully recognised within the disability support system. We have also called for strong protections for disabled people's rights, meaningful choice and control over support services, recognition of the vital role of whānau and carers, and improved equity for Māori.

We believe disability support services should help people live with dignity, independence, and full participation in their communities.

Our submission reflects the experiences shared by members of our community and our commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind after cancer treatment ends.

Thank you to everyone who continues to share their stories and experiences. Your voices help shape our advocacy and strengthen our work on behalf of people affected by head and neck cancer.

Link to our submission LINK