Work queries top advice list
Employment rights is the theme for this year’s Citizens Advice Awareness Week which runs from March 19-25.
Far North CAB enquiries about working conditions, including employment agreements, have increased. Gay Ansley, chair of the Far North CAB board, says employment related enquiries come from across the board, often about employers holding back pay or failing to pay employees on time. Many don’t have written contracts.
‘‘Some employers do not have knowledge about all the rules,’’ she says. ‘‘The Government has tightened up a lot. A lot of the problems stem from the rules changing. But often a working person running a small business can’t keep up with them. They can get a brochure outlining the latest information from the CAB. ‘‘
Nearly 40 bureau workers, including four trainees, currently volunteer at the Far North CAB providing advice and guidance. The service is free and confidential.
‘‘We respect peoples’ privacy,’’ Ansley says. When people are in trouble it’s heart-warming to guide them to the right decisions. Everyone who works here has a commitment to doing their best.’’
Contact the bureau at the Proctor Library building, 6 Cobham Road, Kerikeri; freephone 0800 367 222 or email farnorth@cab.org.nz. The service is open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 3.30pm.