Changing the Perception of Disabled People in Society

At Children with Disability NZ, we believe true inclusion starts with changing minds. Our strategic plan outlines how we will reshape societal attitudes, break down stereotypes, and build a culture where disability is celebrated as part of human diversity.

Our Vision

A New Zealand where:
✅ Disability is not seen as a limitation, but as a natural part of life.

✅ Disabled children and adults are valued, included, and empowered in all spaces.

✅ Society designs for access first, removing barriers before they exist.

Key Challenges We Address

• Outdated stereotypes that paint disability as "inspiration" or "burden."

• Lack of representation in media, leadership, and public spaces.

• Physical and social barriers that exclude disabled people from everyday life.

Our 5-Point Strategy

1. Education & Awareness

Goal: Ensure every Kiwi understands disability as part of diversity.
Actions:

• Develop school programs teaching inclusion from a young age.

• Publish children’s books & resources featuring disabled characters.

• Run public campaigns (e.g., "Disability is Not a Bad Word").

2. Media & Representation

Goal: Shift narratives from pity to empowerment.
Actions:

• Partner with NZ media to showcase disabled voices.

• Train journalists on respectful disability reporting.

• Amplify stories of disabled athletes, artists, and leaders.

3. Accessible Design Advocacy

Goal: Make inclusion the default, not an afterthought.
Actions:

• Advise businesses & councils on accessible playgrounds, events, and spaces.

• Promote universal design in housing, transport, and tech.

• Certify "Inclusion Champions" in communities.

4. Community Engagement

Goal: Foster connections between disabled and non-disabled Kiwis.
Actions:

• Host "Play & Learn" days where families of all abilities interact.

• Create peer support networks for disabled youth and adults.

• Train inclusion ambassadors in schools and workplaces.

5. Policy & Systems Change

Goal: Embed disability inclusion in NZ’s laws and institutions.
Actions:

• Advocate for stronger accessibility standards.

• Push for disabled representation in government advisory roles.

• Campaign for funding parity in education, sports, and arts.

How You Can Help

• Educate yourself – Download our free Disability Awareness Guides.

• Challenge stereotypes – Speak up when you hear harmful language.

• Support our work – Donate, volunteer, or partner with us.

🚀 Together, we won’t just change perceptions—we’ll change reality.