The Auckland Local would like to acknowledge the many challenges the current situation presents for our people and the likelihood that a number of you may be experiencing additional distress during this time. 

Whether this distress is a result of increased financial pressure, a loss of social connection, or a general lack of uncertainty about the future, we want you to know that not only is it okay to reach out for support, it is healthy and important to do so during this or any other time. 

We also want you to know that good support is available and that we are here to help you access those supports if needed. Below is a reminder of some of the support available to you. 

Of course, you are each other's most immediate - and often most useful - form of support. So please do continue to be kind, to engage in the practices that help keep you well, and to look out for each other during this time. 

Kia Kaha, 

Auckland Local
NZPFU

Internal Support 

Tier 1 Support 

Vitae/EAP - Self-referral to EAP or Vitae counselling is still available 24/7, with counselling provided via phone or video sessions. 

Vitae - Contact can be made via phone - 0508 664 981 or by visiting the Vitae website and completing a counselling referral form - www.vitae.co.nz. 

EAP - Contact can be made via phone 0800 327 669 or at eapservices.co.nz.

Peer Support – All five Regions have dedicated Peer Supporters who you can contact for support via the portal, through the communications centre, Region SHW Advisors or Welfare Officers. 

Tier 2 Support

Clinical Psychologist - Access to a clinical psychologist is still available through the Region SHW Coordinators and also through the Welfare Officers. 

Further support can be found on the portal here:

• https://portal.fireandemergency.nz/how-do-i/safety-health-and-wellbeing/seek-safety-health-and-wellbeing-support/
  
  
• Further to the Tier 1 and Tier 2 supports identified above, Mel Johnson (Te Hiku Welfare Officer) and the Area Peer Support teams will be reaching out to some of those identified as potentially requiring further support during this time. 
  

External Support

If you would prefer to seek support external to Fire and Emergency, this can be done by calling or texting 1737 at any time to speak with a trained counselor – it’s free and confidential.

Please also consider reviewing the Mental Health Foundations Top Tips to Get Through, which can be found here -https://www.mentalhealth.org.nz/get-help/covid-19/top-tips-to-get-through/