Our work

Using the SAMS developmental evaluation approach, we work with disabled people, whānau and providers to improve the development of disability support services.

SAMS creates collaborative spaces to explore areas of strength and areas requiring further development.  The voice of disabled people and whānau are central to this process.

We ask “how’s it going?” and “how could things be done in a better way?”. We then work alongside providers to ensure positive change.

We support disabled people and their families to use an Enabling Good Lives approach to explore what a good life is for them. We do this through the provision of current, relevant, accurate and accessible information.

The resources we develop are principles based and co-developed with disabled people and families.

Resource topics include evaluation, research, monitoring, service development, Quality of Life, self-directed planning, and a range of other topics of interest to the sector.  

Our team have a deep and practical understanding of the Enabling Good Lives approach with many years of experience facilitating Enabling Good Lives training and education.

We specialise in customised approaches and tailor our training and education for individuals, groups, communities and organisations.

SAMS also creates tools to support disabled people and their whānau to self-advocate, for example, resources on supported decision making, how to manage conflict, facilitation in an ‘EGL context’, effective communication etc.  

We work collaboratively and in partnership with disabled people, whānau and communities to design and deliver leadership development programmes.

We believe in creating opportunities for people to come together, connect, build collective voice, and develop shared actions for change.

Disabled people and their families should have full authority and self-determination over their lives and community needs.

We know that investment in the capability building and leadership development of disabled people and family leads to increased opportunities for self-determination, choice and control.

Building on more than three decades of work in the disability community, SAMS (Standards and Monitoring Services) and Parent to Parent New Zealand have combined their values, vision, people, connections and strengths to provide carers with resources and opportunities, through Care Matters.

Care Matters is a national learning and well-being resource service for Carers in Aotearoa New Zealand, and offers support through custom workshops, events and resources. Visit the Care Matters website for more information.