Help for employees in Canterbury
Brief outline of the services and support available to employees during the aftermath of the Canterbury Earthquake, 4 September 2010.
11 November 2010
In the wake of the 2010 Canterbury earthquake, we have collated some information that may be helpful to employees in the days and weeks to come. Contact the Government Helpline (0800 779 997) 24 hours a day to enquire about or apply for any of the following assistance.
Everyone’s circumstances maybe different and we encourage people to discuss their circumstances with Work and Income.
Emergency financial help
If you need urgent financial assistance, you may be eligible for a Civil Defence payment to cover the following costs:
- payments to hosts for billeting evacuees (private homes, marae or community centres)
- accommodation costs for evacuees in tourist accommodation (motels, hotels or temporary rental accommodation)
- loss of livelihood for people who cannot work and lose income due to the emergency - for instance because the workplace is closed or they need to remain with their family/whanau. Payment can commence from the day following the date payment of wages or salary ceased. Loss of livelihood cannot be claimed if the person’s employer is claiming the Earthquake Support Subsidy as they are for the same thing (loss of income).
- emergency or essential needs
Civil Defence payments cover actual costs or loss of livelihood up to a set maximum.
If you are unsure if the costs for your immediate needs will be covered by insurance, an initial payment to meet the immediate need can be made.
Other Support
This payment can help with urgent things like food, bedding and emergency dental or medical care, and does not normally need to be paid back.
This is for people not already receiving a Work and Income benefit. If the person needs something but can’t afford to pay for it right now, (like appliances, rent or school uniforms) they may be able to get this assistance. This payment will need to be paid back.
Counselling and support services
The government helpline phone 0800 777 846 can provide advice and has access to trained counsellors. Don't hesitate to call if you need help.
There is also useful information on self help available at the Ministry of Health website
Where to go for help
People can contact the Government Helpline (0800 779 997) 24 hours a day. They can also phone the Work and Income helpline 0800 559 009 or go to their local Work and Income service centre.
Regular assistance for employees
a package designed to help make it easier to work and raise a family. It pays extra money to many thousands of New Zealand families. Around three-quarters of all families with children are eligible. The package includes tax credits, an Accommodation Supplement and Childcare Assistance. To find out more about Working for Families, go to the website or call 0800 257 477.
an information and advice service that is provided in confidence and on-site, when a business is experiencing downsizing, relocation or closure.
