Late last year, several media outlets reported a rise in the number of significant financial hardship applications from KiwiSaver members as cost of living pressures began to bite. We’ve noticed a similar trend. Most applications are from members who are unable to meet the cost of their minimum living expenses. A significant financial hardship benefit is an avenue of last resort. It is not an automatic benefit, and your application must meet specific criteria before we can grant it. For example, we expect you will have first explored other reasonable options to address your financial situation. However, we understand the stressful nature of Police work and will consider this when assessing your application. If your application is reasonable and appropriate and falls within the guidelines, we will do our best to help you.

• Read more about the significant financial hardship benefit

Employee assistance programme

Another avenue of support is the employee assistance programme (EAP). All Police staff are eligible for three free sessions. This includes access to budgeting advice if you want to sit down with an adviser and sort out a plan to get on top of things. Talk to your local Police Wellness Advisor or contact the EAP directly on 0800 327 669.