An independent review into residential care for the disabled says major changes are needed to ensure residents are safe and well cared for.
The Government will release a report from a panel led by consumer advocate David Russell, ordered by the Health Minister Tony Ryall, that high-profile incidents at homes in Auckland and Christchurch as well as wider issues in the sector.
The report says the Ministry of Health missed early sings of trouble brewing at facilities, and until recent times, its actions were inadequate.
More widely, it says disabled people suffer from many forms of abuse but have learnt to be silent out of fear of retribution or losing access to a service or caregiver.
Sweeping changes to audits and monitoring to improve care are recommended.
