As of March 2024, it is noteworthy to mention that Hamish Webb currently stands as the sole lead provider available through Counsellors NZ for individuals seeking support through the ACC Sensitive Claims process. If you are wanting to make an ACC claim through Hamish please use code “ACC” for a FREE booking!
Introduction:
New Zealand’s Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) plays an important role in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma, particularly victims of sexual assault and abuse. ACC funds the cost of therapy for people who have experienced sexual abuse or assault. You don’t have to have a physical injury and you you don’t have to have reported the incident to the police or have told anyone else about it.
The ACC Sensitive Claims Process:
The ACC Sensitive Claims process is designed to provide financial assistance, therapy and other support services to survivors of sexual assault and abuse in New Zealand. If you were overseas when the abuse occurred you need to qualify as an “ordinary resident” and have not been away for 6 months or more.
Engagement and early planning
The process starts by meeting a lead provider (Hamish Webb) who will submit an engagement form to ACC.
I will need to gather some basic details about the event such when it happened (or an estimate if you can’t remember). What happened (not a big story just a sentence or two is enough). If this is a one off event or it occurred multiple times.
I will also get you to sign some paperwork ACC6300 which gives ACC the authority to collect medical records & ACC6242 client confirmation of early planning and if you as the client are happy with ACC extending its decision making time.
ACC allows us 6 sessions to complete all of these things as well as doing our therapeutic work together.
Supported Assessment
The next part is the supported assessment which is where both you as the client and myself the lead provider meet with an assessor. Often this is a 2 hour, one-off meeting, but it can be adjusted to better meet your needs as the client. The assessor is on your side and wants to support you to get your claim approved by ACC. They do this by showing that because of the event that occurred you have sustained a mental injury which commonly PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Their focus is on what happened in your life before the event and what happened in your life after the event. Not about the event itself.
Support to Wellbeing
If your ACC claim is accepted, you will have access to up to 48 hours of therapy annually. Throughout this period, we will be having therapy sessions and I will be keeping track of your progress and submitting reports to ACC to showcase the steps you’re taking toward your goals. With appropriate rationale, ACC may also approve things such as Family and Whanau sessions, a social worker, and group work such as yoga for your wellbeing.
Navigating the ACC Sensitive Claims Process with Hamish Webb:
Even if individuals have not yet lodged a claim with the ACC for a sensitive claim, I can play a crucial role in guiding them through the process. I have a deep understanding of the intricacies of trauma and the ACC Sensitive Claims process allowing me to offer valuable insights and support to survivors at every step. My approach goes beyond providing counselling; I actively assists individuals in understanding their rights, accessing appropriate services, and facilitating the communication necessary for filing a sensitive claim. This comprehensive support ensures that survivors feel empowered and informed throughout their healing journey.
Confidentiality and Compassion:
Both the ACC Sensitive Claims process and the services provided by Counsellors NZ, led by Hamish Webb, prioritize confidentiality and compassion. Survivors can trust that their information will be handled with the utmost discretion, creating a safe space for them to share their experiences and seek the support they need.