An investigation of psychological distress, injury and suicide within FENZ

Posted 28 May '19 under National

NZPFU Member and firefighter Josh Darby has produced the attached comprehensive analysis of research into firefighters’ mental health and wellbeing. Our Comms Centre members are also subject to trauma and need similar mental health and wellbeing assistance.

Josh has presented the report to FENZ OLT and the NZPFU conference. His presentation includes video clip-selfies of firefighters telling their stories of mental health issues and the help they need. Josh is seeking permission from those firefighters to more widely publish their stories.

This report is well worth the read – it also has practical recommendations that FENZ could implement now.

FENZ’s formal written response to this report is disappointing and the NZPFU have written to FENZ concerned that they have only “noted” the report and recommendations with no firm commitment to implement them.

Members are reminded that should they need any assistance all they have to do is ask. FENZ has confirmed any requests including psychologist or psychiatrist assistance will be provided and as it will be attributed to a national budget there should be no issue from regional and area management.

If you need help and do not know how to ask or who to ask give your Local a call – or ring Welfare Officer Jim Ryburn 021 654 184. If you have any issues receiving help, or would rather not go through your management or Local please ring the National Secretary Wattie Watson 021 928 819, National President Ian Wright 021 497 448 or National Vice President Joseph Stanley 027 659 9965.

DOWNLOAD FILE DOWNLOAD FILE
Share This:

Related Articles

VIEW ALL VIEW ALL

AUCKLAND HEAVY AERIAL – PARNELL 255

Members will be aware of District Manager Mackereth's instruction to all staff to restrict Parnell’s aerial appliance to respond to confirmed fires only, copied below.

This instruction was issued without genuine consultation with the Auckland Local and highlights the disarray and crisis that Fire and Emergencies fleet is in. Despite the organisation saying that their fleet is well maintained and regularly serviced, once again reality proves the complete opposite,  with this decision impacting the safety and well-being of firefighters and the public.

TRIENNIAL LOCAL ELECTIONS

Due to nominations being received for Kawerau Local Secretary, President and Vice President and common nominees for positions, a series of elections will be conducted in accordance with the Rules.

The election for Local Secretary will be conducted first, then President and Vice President if still required.  Separate notices will be issued for each election.

TRIENNIAL LOCAL ELECTIONS

Due to nominations being received for Auckland Local President, Vice President and Local Committee with common nominees for positions, a series of elections will be conducted in accordance with the Rules.

The election for Auckland Local President will be conducted first, then Vice President and then Local Committee if still required.  Separate notices will be issued for each election.