Pandemic
We can provide a range of financial assistance to you and your family if you have been affected by a pandemic ( such as the current Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic).
Financial assistance
There are a number of ways we could help you during and after a pandemic.
Even if you don't think you can get financial assistance from us, if you're struggling to support yourself or your familiy, please contact us. We can often help in some way. We may be able to offer other assistance, give advice, or refer you to another agency.
Special Needs Grant
This helps you, in certain circumstances, pay for something when you have no other way of paying for it.
Advance Payment of Benefit
If you're getting a benefit and have an immediate need for something essential, you may be able to get an advance payment of your benefit.
Recoverable Assistance Payment
This helps you pay for something you need urgently when you have no other way of paying for it.
If you can't get any of these, or any other benefits, you may be able to get an Emergency Benefit. This is a payment if you're in hardship and unable to support yourself or your family
How to apply
Contact us if you need to apply for financial assistance. We’ll let you know exactly what you need to do.
If you're unable to come into a Work and Income Office then please call us on 0800 559 009. We’ll work out the best way to help you, while keeping you and your family safe and well.
If you're deaf, hearing-impaired or find it hard to communicate by phone you can use our Deaf Link contacts.
If you have concerns
Healthline is a free telephone health information service that’s run by the Ministry of Health. The service is staffed by registered nurses who will assess your health needs and give information and advice to help you decide on the best level of care.
- Healthline: 0800 611 116
Hygiene guide
The Ministry of Health advises the following hygiene guide:
- Wash your hands.
- By washing your hands with soap under warm running water, you will reduce your chance of getting the flu.
- Alcohol-based hand gel can also be used if soap and water are not readily available.
- Practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette.
- Cover your mouth and/or nose to reduce the spread of germs. Remember to wash your hands afterwards.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- Stay at home and away from others if you are sick.
Websites that may help
Ministry of Health - Influenza A (H1N1)
The latest information about how to stay well - along with news about pandemics, and any developments.
Department of Labour - Pandemic Planning
Useful information for employee's and employers including FAQ's
Ministry of Education - Pandemic Planning
Information for schools, parents and caregivers, and pandemic preparation resources for ECEs, schools and tertiary education institutions.
Contact us
Everyone's situation is different. We're here to help if you need it.
Contact us if you:
- would like assistance
- aren't sure if you can get assistance
- are struggling to support yourself or your family
- would like more information.
Information contained on this page is also available in a handy fact sheet.