The Health and Disability Commission (HDC) is refreshing its advocacy guidelines, last updated in 2005. Consultation on the draft Advocacy Guidelines is open until 30 June 2026.

You can engage in the consultation process online at this link Advocacy Guidelines consultation Survey

Alternately you can email your response to guidelines@hdc.org.nz  Survey questions include:

• Do the guidelines meet your expectations (yes or no)?
• If no, what would strengthen the Guidelines for you | your organisation?
• Have we left anything out? Does anything need more emphasis?

About the Advocacy Service: The HDC Act 1994 enables the establishment of a nationwide free advocacy service, the Nationwide Health and Disability Advocacy Service. It is mandated under the Act to promote the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights 1996 (the Code of Rights) and to support consumers (and whānau) to resolve concerns directly with a health or disability service. The service operates independently of HDC. Advocates use an empowerment, strengths-based advocacy model to support whānau and to work alongside consumers.

Advocates do not determine if there is a breach under the Code of Rights. Serious or unresolved complaints are referred to the office of the HDC.