Professor Roger O'Sullivan:

As I concluded my comments, I outlined that respondents highlighted the importance of recognising the diversity of needs for those requiring home support. A large number of the submissions called for the inclusion of a rights-based approach or a specific human rights framework within the regulations. This was particularly important for stakeholders from the disability sector, who were concerned that the regulations reflected a care model for the frail or sick older person rather than supporting independent living in the community. Some noted that this could result in a risk-averse, medicalised model of home support rather than one that could support and empower those using it to live their full lives.