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Policy and Advocacy

Supporting an accessible and equitable society

The RNZFB aims to educate central and local government, businesses and community organisations about the challenges blind and partially sighted people face in a visual world. These agencies can remove barriers to participation and advance the vision of a "non-disabling society".

See the New Zealand Disability Strategy for objectives and actions to achieve them.

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Submissions

The RNZFB participates in many of the consultations undertaken by the government, local authorities, and other agencies. The RNZFB comments on research needs, proposals for changes to legislation and social policy. The views and expertise of Foundation members and staff inform the writing and presentation of submissions. In some cases the Foundation makes joint submissions with other groups, e.g. blindness consumer organisations that have strength in advocacy.

Recent submissions

Archive of older submissions.

Submissions in preparation

Submissions in preparation will be listed here. To offer input, please email:mailto:submissions.

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Tips for advocacy

Here are a few key points for RNZFB Community Committees and individuals who advocate at the local level.

  • Have a clear goal in mind. Be selective: "What are the one or two points we need to get across?"
  • Be sure of your facts and ensure they are are up to date. Consult others: Foundation members, staff, and local experts. Blind and partially sighted individuals are the experts in their own experience.
  • Remember that advocacy works best when it is relationship-focused. Seek to inform the person or group you are approaching. Avoid confrontation.
  • Use plain language. Be to the point. Expect questions and listen carefully to them. If you are making a verbal submission, your preparation might include some question and answer role play.
  • Use local examples to explain themes.
  • Be careful to respect privacy. Think about consistency with the Foundation's key messages.
  • Leave follow up information and contact details.

For assistance with particular lobbying exercises, please email:mailto:submissions.

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Seeing Justice Done

The RNZFB has produced a booklet called Seeing Justice Done which sets out the legal rights of blind and partially sighted people.

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Issues

Energy saving lightbulbs

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Best Practice Guidelines

RNZFB is seeking your feedback on best practice guidelines for accessible signage usable by blind and partially sighted people, including those who are deafblind. Draft guidelines are available online and in accessible formats, and feedback is due Monday 26 April 2010.


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