Can a family member be paid to care for me at home?

In April 2023, Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora announced a change to the way that family care is funded. The changes provide more choice and flexibility for those who need support services to remain in their homes and communities. Importantly, it also means that caregivers who provide support to family/whānau will be compensated.

After a needs assessment is carried out, the person receiving care can choose to have a whānau or family member, or an external carer, provide this care. The carer can then be employed by a Home and Community Support Service provider to deliver the agreed services. This range of caregiver options gives more choice to people who want to stay in their home and community but need support services to do so.

In the past, whānau and family members who provided care for loved ones were not always eligible for payment or compensation for their time and effort. However, under the new funding model, a whānau or family member can become a paid carer if they meet certain criteria. These criteria include being 16 years or over, physically able to perform the necessary tasks, and available to attend to the person according to their care plan.

This change in funding model has had a significant impact on families and whānau who provide care for loved ones. It has provided financial support and recognition for the vital role that caregivers play in supporting older adults, people with disabilities, and those with long-term health conditions. Additionally, it has allowed more people to receive care in their homes and communities, where they feel more comfortable and connected. However, it is important to note that becoming a paid carer for a family member is not an option for everyone. Caregiving can be a demanding and emotionally challenging role, and it is important to have access to support and respite services to prevent caregiver burnout.

To learn more about the new funding system, you can either consult with your family doctor or visit the Health NZ website using the link provided here.