Access to Winz offices clarified
I GATHER from Monday 13th of February, Work and Income New Zealand will now demand that you provide a community services card and a valid photo ID such as a passport or driver’s license before being allowed to enter the building.
Is this correct? How can you apply for a community services card if you don’t have easy access to a computer? What about people who don’t have a passport or driver’s licence?
While I appreciate the concerns over security needed in such a government office, this is a ruling by comparatively wellpaid bureaucrats who do not understand how many of our people live. I would also assume that to look at the pamphlets put out by the Ministry of Social Development one would have to go into their office? How else can you find out what is available unless maybe you contact one of our many overworked and underfunded volunteer services. Susanna Hanson
Wakari [Ministry of Social Development regional commissioner, Southern, John Allen replies: ‘‘We want everyone to feel safe — visitors and staff — so it’s important we know who’s coming on to our sites. Security guards are there to do that. They are having a conversation with people as they arrive at our offices to ask why a person is there and whether they have some form of ID.
‘‘But it’s OK if they don’t. Not everyone always carries ID so if they don’t, it won’t mean they won’t be able to enter a Work and Income office. As long as guards are satisfied someone has a genuine reason for visiting, people will be able to enter.
‘‘Many security guards were already having these conversations — the change is simply making sure we have a consistent approach across the country. And we have been working closely with them and our regional staff to ensure they understand the needs of clients, and that they are aware of their obligations under the Privacy Act.
‘‘More and more people want to use digital channels when they’re dealing with us, just as they do in other aspects of their lives. It saves people having to wait in line or on the phone to talk to us. They can update their details, seek support at a time and place that suits them. We offer a number of online services that we’re improving and adding to all the time.’’]