RSA is there to support Kiwi veterans
For those who have served, here are some RSA details
The Royal New Zealand Returned and Services Association (RSA) wants all veterans and their families to know that support is available for them through the RSA’s Support Services.
Whether involved in compulsory military training or active service, all veterans are important to the RSA’s Support Services team, even if they are not an RSA member — ex-serving personnel often do not know their rights and where to get help.
“We know that life isn’t always easy and it can be difficult to know where to look for help. That’s why our support advisers are out in the community ready to support those most in need,” it states on the RSA website.
“We are not the emergency services, but if you’re struggling, the RSA can help you get back on your feet.
“We understand that joining the military means sacrifice. Family and relationships can suffer, and the demands of service can put significant pressures on both the service person and their families.
“Leaving the military can also be a significantly stressful time. It can be hard to work out where you fit, and how you can continue to contribute.
“We believe everyone who has served should be able to get support when they need it.”
torohanga and Taumarunui will host support clinics on November 30 and December 1 respectively, run by the RSA for anyone who has served in New Zealand’s Armed Forces and their whānau.
These clinicswill cover, but are not limited to, all surrounding towns from
haupō to Te Kūiti and across to Taumarunui.
A group of trained RSA support advisers from all over New Zealand will be available to assist on the allotted days.
The RSA’s Support Services team want veterans to know that all conversations are confidential. Their goal is to ensure veterans know what support is available, advocate if needed and to help fill out any forms necessary.
All veterans who pre-date April
1974 (before ACC was established) are entitled to Veterans’ Independence Programme ( VIP) services through Veterans’ Affairs. Post-April 1974, VIP Services are only available to veterans who have Qualifying Operational Service.
This includes home-help, gardening, house washing, lawn mowing and many healthcare benefits, but most importantly VIP isn’t asset-tested.
While veterans who served after April 1974 are not eligible for the same level of support from Veterans’ Affairs, the RSA can help connect them with other available services or offer support through their own network.
If you or someone else is not in immediate danger but still needs to talk, you can reach out to an RSA support adviser for assistance.
Contact details for district support managers as well as other information can be found at rsa.org.nz/getsupport/support-for-veterans.
The RSA’s support advisers can help connect you with other agencies that may be able to provide assistance.
Anumber of other veterans’ organisations are also available to provide support; these can be viewed on the website too.
For any further information, contact South Waikato district support co-ordinator Irene Wardlaw on 027 444 4374 or via email, dsa. waikato@rsa.org.nz.