Kay Brereton media spokesperson for Beneficiary Advocacy Federation of New Zealand after an initial read of the budget announcements states;

"For a significant period of time advocates have been arguing for new white ware to be purchased when people apply for and advance payment for white ware

Thus we support the Ministry enabling access for low income earners and beneficiaries to quality white ware products which will suit their individual circumstances and family needs

It is best value for money that people have access to new products with delivery, installation and a warranty

In the past we have seen people having to borrow multiple times to purchase a series of short lived second hand appliances

This will make quality white ware and quality optical care available and affordable for all beneficiaries and low income earners

However I am concerned about the removal of choice and the compulsory nature of this scheme, and hope that all and any individual circumstances will be able to be catered for.

I am pleased that more front-line staff are to be employed, but believe that a further 354 staff is not sufficient to meet the current service need, let alone the increased workload that the soon to be implemented “benefit reforms” will create.

We are concerned that the soon to be implemented “reforms” will cause significant stress and suffering, particularly among those with health conditions. That the planned assessment model will impose outrageous levels of stress and hardship for these people, just as has occurred with a similar assessment model in the “British welfare reforms”.

ENDS

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