Advisory: Clarification regarding Government helplines for post-quake support

Source: Ministry of Social Development

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Further to yesterday's announcement it may be useful to clarify the purpose of the two 0800 numbers the Government has announced.

There have been some inaccuracies in the media coverage on how people and businesses can get help.

We have a new helpline and one that has recently renamed.

The new Government Helpline (0800 779 997) will operate from 7am to 9pm, seven days a week.

The existing helpline- The Earthquake Support Line (0800 777 846) which was formerly called the Canterbury Support Line- operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The new Government Helpline provides a one-stop source of information on the services and assistance available to people affected by the emergency.

The existing Earthquake Support Line (formerly called the Canterbury Support Line) is for people who are anxious or concerned about how the situation is affecting them or their whanau and who need emotional support, advice or just someone to talk to.

It has been bolstered with two mental health workers and 20 hours of nursing time.

Here’s the initial press release: https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government-helpline-post-earthquake-support

And here’s a link to the webpage about the new helpline and the other support available https://www.workandincome.govt.nz/eligibility/emergencies/earthquake-nov-2016.html#null

ENDS

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