On behalf of Marita Broadstock at INSIGHT Research, we're delighted to announce the launch of the new free website, Autism Housing Toolkit Aotearoa.
Drawing on research evidence, technical expertise, and lived experience, the website provides practical guidance on adapting homes to better support. The toolkits include ideas for different budgets, ages, support needs, and living situations, including renting, flatting, home ownership, and new builds. They have been developed specifically for the New Zealand housing context and informed by collaboration with Dr Jessica Tupou, our cultural advisor. We also undertook formal user experience testing with 23 members of the autism community to ensure the website is accessible, easy to use, relevant, and practical.
Although the resource focuses on autism, much of the advice is also likely to benefit many other neurodivergent people, particularly those with sensory differences.
Despite a modest budget and a challenging two-month development timeframe, we're incredibly proud of what we've achieved. The website was officially launched last week at the Access Activator Showcase by the Minister for Disability Issues, Hon Louise Upston, and Whaikaha Chief Executive Paula Tesoriero.
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