Support Groups – Disability Connect

Finding the Right Group

Support groups are available both in person and online throughout New Zealand. Some are open to all disabled people and families, while others are specific to disabilities, cultures, languages, age groups, or life stages.

There are a wide range of support groups available across Auckland that provide opportunities for disabled people, parents, whānau, carers, and siblings to connect with others, share experiences, learn new skills, and reduce isolation.

Why Support Groups Matter

Support groups provide more than information. They create connection, reduce isolation, build confidence, and help disabled people and families feel understood. Whether someone is newly diagnosed or has been navigating disability for many years, support groups offer a valuable opportunity to learn, share, and belong.

For Families and Parents

Many support groups are designed specifically for parents and caregivers of disabled children and adults.

These groups offer a safe and welcoming environment where families can:

Share experiences and practical advice
Learn about disability supports and services
Hear from guest speakers and professionals
Build friendships and support networks
Gain emotional support from others on a similar journey

Disability Connect currently facilitates several family-focused support groups, including:

Chinese Families Disability Support Group
Culturally Diverse Parents Disability Support & Social Group
Weekly Zoom Support Group (Mondays at 7pm, open to all families)

These groups cover topics such as autism support, behaviour support, communication, financial planning, healthy relationships, parenting, and wellbeing.

Some support groups are based around a specific disability too. A list of Auckland and online support groups can be found at the bottom of this page.

For Disabled People

Peer support groups allow disabled people to meet others with shared experiences, develop confidence, build friendships, and learn from one another. Peer groups may focus on a specific disability, age group, culture, or shared interest.

Examples include:

Autism peer groups
Down syndrome support groups
Cerebral palsy networks
Brain injury support groups
Deaf and hearing loss groups
Disabled youth social groups
Visable Peer Support Groups
Disabled Men’s Mental Health Groups

Peer support is often described as “disabled people supporting disabled people” and can help increase belonging, self-determination, and community participation.

For Siblings

Brothers and sisters of disabled people face unique experiences and challenges. Dedicated sibling support programmes help them connect with others who understand what life is like growing up with a disabled sibling.

Parent to Parent’s SibSupport NZ programme provides:

SibShops (ages 8–18) – fun activity days combined with discussion and peer support
SibCamps (ages 8–18) – weekend camps focused on connection, confidence, and friendship
SibVoyage – a specialised programme for Northland youth

These programmes help siblings develop coping strategies, build resilience, make friends, and recognise that they are not alone