David relies on Christina for 24/7 care, but the NDIS won’t fund her help – because she’s his wife

When Dr David Squirrell, a deafblind advocate talks about the NDIS, he calls it the “national divorce initiating scheme”.

Squirrell, 68, needs around-the-clock support. After starting to lose his senses in his 30s, the former physician has very limited vision and uses hearing aids. He’s also lost his taste and smell.

He relies on his wife, Christina – a qualified nurse, who can sign and has certificates in disability and aged care – to look after him 24 hours a day and help him communicate when they leave the house.