Sensitive Claims
ACC Sensitive Claims Support
If you have experienced sexual abuse, assault, or trauma, you may be able to access ACC-funded counselling and support. You do not have to navigate the process alone.
Support for sensitive claims
ACC sensitive claims can involve deeply personal and painful experiences. For many people, even starting the process can feel overwhelming.
ACC Advocates NZ helps people find independent support, navigation services, and advocates who understand how complex and sensitive these claims can be.
What is a sensitive claim?
A sensitive claim is generally an ACC claim involving mental injury caused by sexual abuse or sexual assault. These claims may relate to recent or historical events.
Support may include counselling, therapy, assessment, and other assistance depending on your situation and ACC’s decision-making process.
Why the process can feel difficult
Sensitive claims can be emotionally hard because people may need to explain traumatic experiences, attend assessments, provide information, and wait for ACC decisions.
Some people worry about privacy, being believed, or whether they will be able to cope with the claims process. These concerns are real and should be treated with care and respect.
You deserve to feel safe, informed, and supported
Seeking support does not mean you are weak. It means you are making sure you have the right information, guidance, and protection around you during a difficult process.
When people often seek help
People may contact an advocate or navigation service when:
- They are unsure how to start a sensitive claim
- They need help understanding ACC-funded counselling
- Their claim has been delayed or declined
- They are worried about privacy and confidentiality
- They feel overwhelmed by ACC forms, assessments, or communication
- They need support with a review or dispute
- They want someone independent to help explain the process
How support services may help
ACC advocates and navigation services may be able to help you understand your options, communicate with ACC, prepare information, and feel more confident about what happens next.
- Explaining the sensitive claims process in plain language
- Helping you understand ACC-funded counselling and therapy options
- Supporting communication with ACC
- Helping with declined or delayed claims
- Protecting your privacy and helping you understand your rights
- Supporting you through reviews or disputes
Recent and historical abuse claims
Sensitive claims may relate to abuse or assault that happened recently, or events that occurred many years ago. You still have the right to seek information, support, and guidance.
Many people wait a long time before reaching out. There is no shame in needing support at any stage.
Need help with an ACC sensitive claim?
We suggest contacting WayFinders Navigation Services for support understanding the ACC process, or browsing the ACC Advocates NZ directory to find independent support.
WayFinders Navigation Services: 0800 273 030
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