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DPA is deeply concerned by the findings in the latest IHC report “From Data to Dignity 2026: Health and Wellbeing Indicators for New Zealanders with Intellectual Disability” which shows people with learning disabilities are being left behind across most areas of health and wellbeing.

Disabled Persons Assembly Chief Executive Mojo Mathers said that the fact that people with learning disabilities still have a much shorter life expectancy than the general population is appalling.

“The 17 year gap in life expectancy is clear evidence of a staggering and persistent health gap for a significant cohort of our disability community that successive governments have failed to address.”

“It is also particularly concerning to see the report highlighting increasing injury rates and high emergency department use and injury-related hospitalisations for women with learning disabilities. 

“These rising injury rates and related hospitalisations along with lower life expectancy point to primary care services being inaccessible or failing to meet the needs of people with learning disabilities.

“DPA strongly  backs the call by IHC for regular public reporting on the health and wellbeing for this sector of our community, along with targeted action to support health literacy, and more accessible health services.

“It is also of major concern that so many children and adults with learning disabilities are living in deprivation, especially in poor-quality housing, crowded conditions, and low-income households.

“These inequities experienced by people with learning disabilities are compounded by systemic barriers to education, employment, health, funding, low-income and exposure to violence.

“While it is a relief to see that the number of children with learning disabilities witnessing family violence has decreased, we note that they still witness higher levels than other children. 

“Any levels of children witnessing family violence is unacceptable, so continuing with a whole-of-society effort is essential to keep children with learning disabilities safe.

Download the report in alternative formats: From Data to Dignity: Health and Wellbeing Indicators for New Zealanders with Intellectual Disability