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United Way

HELPING THE HELPERS

United Way is one of the world's leading organisations dedicated to strengthening communities and improving the lives of disadvantaged people. It operates in around 45 countries, processing billions of dollars annually through a network of over 4000 independent community funds.

United Way (New Zealand) Inc. is a volunteer-based organisation whose purpose is to work with individuals, corporations, government and the community to make a positive difference by encouraging generosity and leading the exchange of resources (money, time, and skills) between these sectors.

Since 1975, United Way has distributed millions of dollars to small, local community groups throughout New Zealand.  Operations are funded through corporate memberships, service fees, donations, grants and a popular payroll donation scheme.

Community groups being supported include those working with children, youth 'at risk', families in crisis, budget advice and support, emergency shelter and caring for the elderly.  For many, the financial support received from United Way helps pay essential operating costs not funded by the other funders.

United Way  has acted as a Funding Manager for The Tindall Foundation since 1996.

For further information, please contact:

Don Oliver JP

Chief Executive - United Way (New Zealand) Inc.

PO Box 10-103

Auckland 1030

Telephone:    (09) 377 2544

Facsimile:       (09) 377 2079

email:               donunited-way@xtra.co.nz

East Auckland Home and Budget Service

MAKING ENDS MEET

The East Auckland Home & Budget Service (EAHBS) had its beginnings in 1979 when volunteers assisting the Department of Social Welfare social workers, recognising the need for proper guidance in money management for Beneficiaries in Auckland's Eastern Suburbs, established a home budgeting service in the area.

The organisation gradually evolved and in 1997, an independent Charitable Trust was formed. Today, EAHBS service performs a vital role in the community by offering free, confidential financial planning as well as education and support for individuals and families.

"Understanding where your money goes is one of the key starting points in budgeting," says EAHBS Administrator June Sinclair, "... and another is discipline. Knowing where your money comes from and where it is being spent helps you to avoid over committing yourself," she observes.

June says EAHBS clients move through a process of financial assessment, goal setting and education to the implementation of solutions that support responsibility and management of their own financial affairs.

"It takes courage for people to admit that they are not able to manage and control their finances," comments June, "...and for many this is a most sensitive situation. The staff at EAHBS are non-judgmental and bring compassion to the firm action required, whilst building a trust relationship with clients that results in positive outcome for many," June says.

EAHBS clients come away empowered with a set of skills that help them to set realistic goals and manage their financial affairs. Clients often report a profound sense of relief and reduction in stress levels once they have confronted their difficulties and learned how to deal with them.

This sentiment is summed up in the words of an EAHBS client who says: "I think this service is absolutely crucial to our people and community. I have learnt so much by having a Budgetor assist me with my financial issues, which are a bit of a roller coaster most of the time! Learning how to budget and manage your money was a huge relief and a burden taken off my shoulders - thank you!"

The benefits of positive budgeting obviously flow on to the entire family.  For example, children may be able to go to school with lunches and adequate clothing.  This may not have been the case before budget assistance has been implemented.

IMPACT & ACHIEVEMENTS

To the year ended June 2004, Budgetors at EAHBS Service assisted 415 clients. Together with dependent children and partners/spouses, more than 1000 people benefited directly from this important work. Indirectly, many others have benefited in some way, including creditors who might not otherwise have been paid.

Agencies such as WINZ, Housing New Zealand, Income Support and others have expressed their appreciation of the assistance offered by the EAHBS. Not only have clients reported that they have gained financially and personally from working with the EAHBS, but these Agencies see the Budgeting service as complementary to their own attempts to increase the financial independence of their clients.

TRENDS & PERSPECTIVES

There are no direct surveys of over-indebtedness in New Zealand.  A literature study from the Ministry of Social Development estimates that in any 12-month period, 15% of households are over-indebted, in that they struggle to meet financial commitments on time.  Around one-third of these have bigger problems, requiring external intervention such as input from budget advisors.

National and international research on the reasons for over-indebtedness and the impact this has on families is limited. Households that are most at risk appear to be those that have low incomes, few financial assets, low levels of human capital, consist of non-partnered individuals and have dependent children. Households with problem debts may suffer from financial hardship, poor health (physical and mental), family stress, stigma and social isolation. Debt may also be a barrier to employment.

Nonetheless, it should be noted that having debts is not necessarily 'bad'. For example, borrowing money allows people to purchase houses or gain tertiary education qualifications far sooner than they would otherwise have been able to. Debt becomes a problem only if it affects people's outcomes negatively.

For further information, please contact:

June Sinclair - Administrator

East Auckland Home and Budget Service

PO Box 18-253

Glen Innes, Auckland

Telephone:    (09) 570 9023

Facsimile:       (09) 570 9623

                                                                                       Date First Posted: 07/12/2004

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