COVID-19

Keep safe with the latest support and information about COVID-19, created especially for the disabled community. Find online resources in a range of alternate formats or access national helplines.

Unite against COVID-19 website

You can find information on topics like face masks, international travel changes and vaccines at the Unite against COVID-19 external URL website. They offer accurate, official information in a range of alternate formats. 

Alternate formats available include:

Information for tāngata whaikaha Māori is also available on Karawhiua — Tāngata whaikaha external URL

Helplines and emergency services

Want to talk to someone?

A dedicated COVID-19 Disability Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Call free on 0800 11 12 13. Text 8988. Or access it at the NZ Relay Service external URL website.

The Helpline team can provide

  • help or information about vaccines, testing, face mask exemptions, and managing COVID-19 at home.
  • Support and advice for any general health concerns you may have
  • Assistance if you need urgent help and your support worker/carer is unavailable.

Someone with experience or knowledge of disability will answer your call from 8am to 8pm. Outside that your call will be answered by a trained member of the Healthline team.

 Welfare phone line:
The COVID-19 welfare phone line can help if you are self-isolating and need food or other essential items. Call them on 0800 512 337.

Emergency services:
If it is an emergency and you need urgent medical help or cannot breathe properly, call emergency services on 111. If you have COVID-19, tell them when you call. 

COVID-19 support for carers

If you are a carer for someone with a disability, please find information and advice on the Ministry of Health website: COVID-19: Family, whānau, and āiga carers external URL