ACC - Client Centered Support

Client Centered Support – accessing support following sexual abuse or sexual violence

Different people affected by sexual abuse or sexual assault will have their own way of dealing with what’s happened. We understand that seeking support can be difficult for all sorts of reasons. It’s important to know that no matter how you choose to deal with it, it’s never too late to seek that awhi/support.

Seeking awhi on your terms, in your time

We understand that it can be difficult to come forward to ask for support and deal with the effects. Making the decision to ask for awhi/support and then finding that support you are comfortable with, is up to you.

Children and Rangatahi (young people)

Listening and building trust with young people is crucial in supporting them to work through the effects of sexual abuse and sexual violence. Our Sensitive Claims Unit works with other agencies and, where there is need, the schools and Kura Kaupapa. Where appropriate, we encourage involvement from the families in the support and therapy of their tamariki (children).

What you can expect

It’s important to us that we provide support in a way that works for you. We’ll always respect:

• Your privacy including the right to use ‘safe’ alternative contact details and the right to have your personal information kept private.
• Your right to choose including who’s involved in your treatment.
• The flexibility of the service which allows you to change your mind, take a break from receiving help, or even withdraw your claim.

“I want to know my information is safe”

Yes it is. All your personal information is kept private. It is important from the first point of contact that your details, your questions and korero are kept confidential.

Take that step

When you are ready, you have the choice to use our service.

1. Through your GP

• Your doctor can still submit a claim on your behalf to ACC. From here one of our Sensitive Claims staff will be in touch with you to discuss the service and assist you in finding the right support.

2. By visiting FindSupport.co.nz

• You have the choice of provider.
• You have the choice of when you make contact.
• It is your choice at what pace you go and what support you need.
• You and your provider will work out your plan.

What next?

Your provider will submit your plan and necessary paperwork to ACC on your behalf.

You will have access to your own personal service coordinator here at ACC that you will have direct access to if you need them.

• This means there will be consistent, safe and flexible support – on your terms.

1. Receive immediate support

Once you’ve met with your GP or visited a provider you found on the website, they’ll help complete any paperwork and this means you’ve made a claim. You have immediate access to support and therapy without your claim being immediately approved.

2. Do I need to report the assault to the Police?

Your welfare is the most important thing. You do not have to report the assault or have a medical test before receiving support. You do have options, you are able contact the police immediately or when/if you are ready.

If you would like to talk to someone before making a claim you can call our Sensitive Claims Unit on 0800 735 566 between the hours of 8.30am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. You can also email the unit directly at sensitiveclaims@acc.co.nz

For Sensitive Claims

FindSupport.co.nz
or
Contact the ACC contact centre 0800 735 566 
sensitiveclaims@acc.co.nz

Cultural advisors are available to assist if required. ACC also has a language support team.