BLUE HOPE FOUNDATION
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do first if I think I have work-related PTSD or a psychological injury?
Contact Blue Hope Foundation. You do not need a diagnosis, a claim number, or a prepared list of events. We will help you take every step from there — including approaching your GP, preparing for your first clinical appointment, and understanding whether an ACC claim applies to you.
What is a Work-Related Mental Injury (WRMI) in New Zealand?
WRMI is the ACC term for a psychological injury caused by a person's employment. Under the Accident Compensation Act 2001, a mental injury is a clinically significant behavioural, cognitive, or psychological dysfunction connected to a qualifying traumatic event or employment process. For police officers and paramedics, WRMI most commonly arises from exposure to violence, death, serious injury, child harm, or suicide at work.
Can police officers claim ACC for PTSD in New Zealand?
In some circumstances, yes. PTSD may be covered by ACC when it meets the legal criteria for a work-related mental injury under the Accident Compensation Act 2001. The pathway depends on whether it arose from a single event or cumulative exposure. Blue Hope Foundation helps police workers understand the process and prepare their claim.
What is an ACC45 and why does it matter for a psychological injury claim?
The ACC45 is the ACC claim lodgement form completed by a healthcare provider, usually your GP, when they assess your injury. It formally records the injury, the circumstances, and the clinician's assessment. Gaps or understatements here can cause difficulties later, so Blue Hope Foundation helps people prepare for that GP appointment. Find out more.
What is the Accredited Employer Programme and how does it affect Police PTSD claims?
New Zealand Police manages its ACC claims through the Accredited Employer Programme (AEP), administered by Howden Care. This means Howden Care, not ACC directly, makes initial decisions on whether a Police officer's mental injury claim is accepted. Blue Hope Foundation monitors Howden Care's conduct on behalf of clients and helps them understand their rights.
Is Blue Hope Foundation independent from New Zealand Police and NZPA?
Yes, completely. Blue Hope Foundation is a registered independent charity (CC60610) with no employment, funding, governance, or contractual relationship with New Zealand Police, ACC, Howden Care, or ambulance services, and is not affiliated with the Police Association. This independence lets Blue Hope speak openly on behalf of clients.
What is the Second Injury Project?
The Second Injury Project is Blue Hope Foundation's framework for identifying avoidable harm caused not by a person's original injury, but by the systems meant to help them recover — including process that serves itself rather than the person, commercial interest in decision-making, and audit standards not suited to psychological injury. Explore.
What is section 76 of the Policing Act 2008?
Section 76 of the Policing Act 2008 lets a Police employee leave the service on health grounds. This matters because resignation can affect ACC entitlements, whereas a properly structured section 76 exit may preserve them. Blue Hope Foundation has supported officers through this process and can help connect you with legal and clinical support. Learn more.
Are Blue Hope Foundation's services free?
Initial contact and first discussions are free, with no obligation. For ongoing support, the Foundation charges $35 per fortnight. There is no pressure to decide straight away — some people take weeks or months before they are ready, and the door stays open.
Why do families of police officers usually notice PTSD first?
The professional composure police workers carry at work comes off at home. Partners see the changes in mood, sleep, drinking, anger, and withdrawal, often before the person themselves recognises what is happening. Blue Hope Foundation treats families as central to early intervention. Learn more.
Can family members of police officers contact Blue Hope Foundation directly?
Yes. Partners, spouses, parents, adult children, and other family members are welcome to contact Blue Hope Foundation directly if they are worried about a loved one. You do not need their permission to seek information, guidance, or support for yourself.
What is the Ima Project?
The Ima Project is a Blue Hope Foundation initiative supporting women connected to policing and emergency services — partners, mothers, daughters, sisters, and widows — who are often the first to notice signs of trauma. It provides connection, practical guidance, education, and community. Find out more