People First NZ responds to new IHC “From Data to Dignity 2026" - Press Release

People First New Zealand is responding to the new IHC Data to Dignity Report, which brings together national data about the health and wellbeing of people with learning (intellectual) disability.

The report uses government data to show how people with learning (intellectual) disability are doing across key areas of life. The data reflects People First members issues and worries about healthcare, support, safety, and having the same opportunities as everyone else.

People First NZ is a Disabled People’s Organisation run by and for people with learning (intellectual) disability. The members speak up about what life is really like. We hear regularly about barriers to seeing a doctor, poor communication, not being listened to, and missing out on the assistance needed to live a good life.

This data is important because it shows what is happening at a national level. But data alone will not create change. What matters is what happens next.

People First believes the findings should lead to real action from government agencies and services. This includes better access to healthcare, regular health checks, easier information, and assistance that respects people’s rights and choices. These are not new issues they have been raised many times before.

New Zealand has commitments under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), including article 25, the right to the highest attainable standard of health. The results in this report show there is still work to do.

Desrae Turvey the National Chairperson says,

“Reports like this confirm what the members already know. People with learning disability are still being left behind. We want action. We want services that listen to us, include us, and assist us to live good lives like everyone else.”

People First NZ will continue working with government, health services, and communities to make sure the voices of people with learning disability are heard and positive change happens.

You can read this document here:

https://www.ihc.org.nz/get-involved/advocacy/from-data-to-dignity-2026