The winning formula

Every request should clearly show:

Disability → Barrier → Impact → Solution → Why this (and not something else)

If one of these is missing, it’s much more likely to be declined.

Pro tip -Language is key

Use this phrase structure wherever you can:

• “This creates a barrier to…”
• “Without this support…”
• “This enables me to…”

That language aligns almost perfectly with how funding decisions are made.

A simple fill-in template you can reuse

You can structure any request like this:

1. Disability-related need
Briefly state the condition and relevant functional impact

“Due to [condition], I experience difficulty with…”

2. The barrier (be specific)
What can’t you do, or what is significantly harder?

“This creates a barrier in [specific activity] because…”

3. Real-life impact
What actually happens if the barrier isn’t addressed?

“Without support, this results in…”

4. The support requested
Be clear and practical

“To address this, I am requesting…”

5. Why this support is necessary and appropriate
This is the most important part

“This support is appropriate because it directly reduces the barrier by…”

6. Why alternatives won’t work (optional but powerful)

“Lower-cost or standard alternatives are not suitable because…”

Example justification (before vs after)

Weak version (likely declined)

“I need noise-cancelling headphones because I have autism and get overwhelmed.”

 Problem:

• Too vague
• No clear functional link
• Sounds like a preference, not a necessity

Strong version (My DSS-ready)

“Due to autism, I experience significant sensory sensitivity to noise, particularly in busy environments.(DISABILITY)

This creates a barrier to participating in community settings such as supermarkets and appointments, as overwhelming noise leads to distress and the need to leave environments prematurely.(BARRIER)

Without support, this limits my ability to complete daily living tasks independently and participate in the community.(IMPACT)

I am requesting noise-cancelling headphones as they directly reduce sensory input, enabling me to remain in environments for longer and complete necessary tasks.(SOLUTION)

Standard headphones or coping strategies alone are not sufficient, as they do not adequately block environmental noise at the level required to prevent sensory overload.”

Why this works:

• Clearly links sensory issue → functional barrier → real-world impact
• Frames the item as necessary, not optional
• Pre-empts objections

What assessors are quietly checking

Even if they don’t say it, they’re mentally ticking off:

• Is this directly related to the disability?
• Does it address a functional barrier (not comfort or preference)?
• Is it reasonable and necessary?
• Is it better than (or needed in addition to) cheaper alternatives?
• Does it increase independence, safety, or participation?

If you hit all of those—you’re in a strong position.

Common mistakes that get things declined

1. Too diagnosis-focused

“I have ADHD so I need…”

They care more about what that stops you doing, not the label.

2. Too vague

“Helps me cope better”

Replace with:

• what specifically improves
• what you can do after the support

3. Sounds like a general life item

Anything that looks like a “normal purchase” (e.g. tablets, furniture, subscriptions) needs extra strong justification.

4. No consequence described (NO IMPACT)

If there’s no clear “what happens without it”, it feels optional.

Quick checklist before you submit

Ask yourself:

• Have I described a real functional barrier?
• Have I shown a negative outcome without support?
• Have I clearly explained why this exact item/service?
• Would a stranger understand why this is necessary, not just helpful?

Get quotes or invoices from Sensory Sam

Sensory Sam is the one stop shop from Aotearoa’s Neuro-Divergent Community for the Neuro-divergent Community, and sensory products are known and trusted with New Zealand's Disability Service Providers.

 Use our ‘Add to quote/ Invoice’ button (under Add to Cart) to generate your wishlist, and we will email you a quote or invoice to use for product funding approval to your provider.