Work and education The Commission increased understanding of the causes of inequalities in work and education and encouraged the adoption of good practices to remove barriers and reduce discrimination. We did this through the provision of human rights education, advice and guidance. We provided advice on the rights of people with disabilities and the support required to assist inclusion at school. This resulted in commitments by Government and the Ministry of Education to take further action regarding the promotion of New Zealand Sign Language and greater consideration of human rights in the delivery of special education services. We continued to participate in the Bullying Prevention Advisory Group and worked to highlight what schools and communities can do about bullying and harassment. The Commission also contributed to the Disability Action Plan 2014–18 which includes priority actions to support children with disabilities in education. We also identified several effective youth employment initiatives that are promoting the right to work for vulnerable groups. Case studies were published showcasing programmes that have enhanced the employment potential of young people in South Auckland, the Far North and for young people with disabilities. Housing, health and community The aftermath of the Canterbury earthquakes continued to represent one of New Zealand’s greatest contemporary human rights challenges. Enabling communities to identify and advocate for their own human rights issues remained our core objective. The Commission engaged with affected people on a number of earthquake related complaints and issues, raising awareness of the psychosocial harm in Canterbury and the importance of applying a human rights approach in disaster recovery. In December 2013, the Commission released the substantial report Monitoring Human Rights in the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery which called for people and their human rights to be put at the heart of the recovery. The report made 33 recommendations to improve access to adequate housing, health services and to help enable business to make a positive contribution to human rights. There have been several notable policy changes on issues advocated for by the Commission. These include the extension of settlement dates for residential insurance claims, including dates to accept the Government’s offer, so that people are able to make well-informed decisions. Steps have also been taken to make it easier for Canterbury homeowners to insulate their houses. A new Christchurch Housing Accord to address housing issues in the city has been proposed, and additional Government investment is promised to help provide psychosocial services, temporary accommodation services and homes for high-need families. Annual Report 2014 19