IHC

IHC is a membership organisation that supports and represents New Zealanders with intellectual disabilities. It is divided into three arms: IDEA services, TimataHou, and non-government activities. 

The largest arm, IDEA services, deals with service provision including the operation of supported independent living homes, supported employment, community involvement and family/whanau services.

TimataHou is a Regional Intellectual Disability Supported Accommodation Service specifically for people with intellectual disabilities and high and complex behaviour needs. Non-government activities, which are funded via fundraising activities rather than government grants, include advocacy, volunteering, and information services.

IHC was established in 1941 by a group of parents who were dissatisfied with the treatment received by their children from health and education professionals.  Throughout the 1970s and 80s IHC campaigned against institutionalised care and pushed for increased community-based services. Internationally, IHC is involved with Inclusion International and Inclusion Europe – every year IHC representatives travel to international conferences to present their programmes and philosophy as an example of how those with intellectual disabilities can lead satisfying lives in their communities.