I need advice, can you help?

Issue date:
Topic:
Individual advocacy

I need advice, can you help?

Yes, we can help! And we have a proven record of doing so.

The UFBA fought for inclusion of Section 36 and 37 of the FENZ Act 2017. This was to ensure volunteers were properly recognised and treated equally and that FENZ makes advocacy and support services available to FENZ volunteers at no cost. We are passionate about supporting people through the difficult process of raising a complaint or dispute or going through conflict. Fact: We never decline support to any existing volunteer of Fire and Emergency.

Advocacy info 1

Who will help?

We have a nationwide team ready to help. You’ll speak directly with our trained Advocacy and Support Advisor, who coordinates our trusted team of volunteer support advocates – all experienced current or former-brigade members. If your situation needs, you may be provided with one of these local support people as a ‘guide by your side’, so you are not alone. Fact: We’re brigade members supporting brigade members.

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How UFBA helps

Each case is different and some are more complex than others. Some cases can be resolved with simple discussion, others are far more complex and we provide legal counsel if necessary.

We have been at the heart of advocating for members in developing Fire and Emergency’s Code of Conduct and behavioural standards and we work closely with the Behaviour and Conduct Office at FENZ – so we know the process better than anyone! We can guide you through it and even travel to stand with you at important meetings. Fact: 60% of cases are resolved within 30 days!

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Who has UFBA helped?

We have helped around 250 volunteers over the last two years, and support those from any role, rank or region. We’ve supported four times as many non-leaders as leaders and the vast majority of all our clients are satisfied with our help (though we cannot guarantee what the outcome of every case will be of course). Fact: Our representation of women is equal to their overall representation across Fire and Emergency!

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We know choosing to reach out is not always easy. If you feel we can help you –

  1. give us a call on 0508 832 269 for a confidential chat.
  2. Or email support@ufba.org.nz and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours.
  3. Our service is FREE for current brigade members.

Don’t just take our word for it – trust fact, not fiction - here’s feedback from some of the 90% who are satisfied with our support:

“Very helpful and gave lots of information and follow up as well as providing several options for resolving matters”

“The ufba provided fantastic support, they knew the rules we had to work under and helped us put together a letter.”

"My son was young, intimidated and being unfairly treated. The UFBA were amazing. He was heard, supported and encouraged to continue with his chosen vocation. I can’t thank you enough as it was a very stressful time."

Make the most of your membership

  • Challenge events and annual conference,
  • Professional development workshops in leadership, wellbeing, for Treasurers and Secretaries,
  • Service honours
  • Representatives on working parties.
  • ACC top up scheme.
  • Benevolent Fund for help.