Introduction
Case management is a means of delivering support to Service Personnel. VANZ currently provides engaged case managers, which is a system strongly supported by Service personnel. Whether legislation is the appropriate way to ensure case management occurs is not clear – it may also be addressed through the output plans for Vote Veteran’s Affairs. This approach may avoid the new Act being overly prescriptive.
Question 61
Should case management be included in new veterans’ legislation?
Case management is a delivery method and therefore not required in legislation. For example, ACC uses case management but it does not appear in their Act.
The NZDF recognises that case management is an effective means of meeting needs of Service Personnel. The possibility of interfacing with other social agencies to ensure service personnel receive all their entitlements is valued by currently serving personnel. This can be addressed through NZDF policy.
Question 61 Personnel Feedback
Focus Groups support the concept of a ‘one-stop shop’ to access all VANZ, WINZ, and ACC and entitlements. They also emphasised the need for case managers to take a proactive approach, and be held accountable for their responsibilities. One participant explained the desire for, “A case manager who will decrease the bureaucracy and confusion of having to deal with multiple agencies and organizations, especially for the family members.”
Question 62
Should the funding that is available through the case management service be regulated through legislation?
Yes, where possible entitlements should be legislated at least on a principle basis to ensure that public money is correctly applied.
Question 63
What needs do veterans over 65 have that can be addressed through case management?
Case Managers should assist claimants over 65 with a needs-based approach, considering the changing needs of their lifestyle. Assistance could include rehabilitation, medical treatment, financial advice, counselling, ongoing health monitoring and support for families.
Question 64
What needs do younger veterans have that can be addressed through case management?
As above, but with an emphasis on occupational rehabilitation and education to maintain their quality of life. A proactive approach by Case Managers is also recommended, noting that younger Service members are more hesitant to seek assistance and entitlements.
Question 65
Do NZDF Service personnel require further assistance when they are transitioning to civilian life?
Yes, noting many of these are being addressed by the NZDF within its current resource allocation, extension of the current career transition provisions, including resettlement training, ongoing access to case management and education to enable Service members to have awareness of and access to their entitlements.
Question 65 Personnel Feedback
Focus Groups identified vocational training and education, as well as the issue of cultural reintegration, in particular for Maori who have had long careers with the NZDF.
Question 66
What are the best ways to support service personnel who are transitioning to civilian employment?
While it need not be covered in detail in the new Act, improved resettlement training and more information about VANZ services during transition, as well as ensuring service personnel have access to all their entitlements, would be helpful. Transition assistance should be provided to all Service members equally, regardless of their age or the years they’ve served.
Question 66 Personnel Feedback
Focus Groups – A majority of participants strongly support increasing the profile of VANZ and awareness of the services they support.
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