Key points

• Injuries can impact both physical and financial well-being, requiring proper support and information for effective management. 

• ACC provides weekly compensation up to 80% of pre-injury income for those unable to work due to a covered injury.  Apply for weekly compensation online via MyACC or by calling the ACC Claims Team at 0800 101 996. 

• Recovering at work can improve mental and physical well-being, lead to shorter recovery times, and provide financial stability. 

• Open communication with your employer about your injury and recovery needs is crucial.  Adjust your responsibilities and work environment as needed for effective recovery. 

• The Active+ Stay at Work Service focuses on recovery at work through collaboration and support while our Back to Work Service helps clients transition to new employment with support like employment preparation and skills training. 

• ACC assists with transportation costs and provides necessary equipment or modifications for a comfortable work environment. 

• A patient referral can be made by contacting Active+ for the Stay at Work service.

Introduction 

Injuries can be life-altering – not just physically, but sometimes financially as well. Navigating your financial concerns after an injury can be daunting, but with the right support and information, you can manage your finances effectively and focus on recovery.  

This guide explores how ACC can assist you with weekly compensation while supporting your return to work journey, and providing additional resources to ensure your financial stability during what can be a challenging time. 

Understanding ACC Support for Financial Stability  

About financial compensation from ACC 

One of the primary concerns after an injury is the loss of income. ACC offers a safety net by providing weekly compensation if you’re unable to work due to an injury they cover.  
 
This compensation can amount to up to 80% of your pre-injury income, which can give you peace of mind around your income throughout your recovery process. 

How to apply for weekly compensation 

• Online via MyACC: Register and log in to MyACC. Head to the 'Get support' section to access the application. 

• Contact ACC Claims Team: Reach out directly to the claims team for assistance with your application by calling 0800 101 996. 

Is there a benefit to recovering while at work? 

There’s sometimes a case to be made for recovering while you’re back in gainful employment.  For many non-complex injuries, such as sprains or strains, recovering at work can significantly benefit your mental and physical wellbeing, as well as keep money coming in.  Staying connected to your workplace not only gives you a sense of normality and purpose, but can also lead to quicker recovery times – with the potential of earning 100% of your pre-injury income. 

The benefits to recovering from an injury while at work 

• Improved well-being: Staying engaged with work can enhance your mental and physical health. 

• Shorter recovery times: Active recovery at work often leads to faster healing. 

• Financial stability:  Earning up to 100% of your pre-injury income through a combination of wages and weekly compensation.  

Working with your employer to create a recovery plan 

Recovery at work is a team effort that will involve you, your employer, health professionals, and ACC.  Open and transparent communication with your employer is vital to the recovery plan being as effective as possible.  You need to be realistic about what you can achieve while you’re recovering, and indeed there may need to be an adjustment to your duties or hours to facilitate a safe and effective recovery. 

Steps to recover at work 

• Have a discussion with your employer:  Share your injury details and discuss potential modifications to your role. 

• Adjust your responsibilities duties:  Work with your employer to adjust your tasks, hours, or working environment as needed. 

• Regular check-ins:  Maintain open communication with your health provider and ACC to update your recovery plan.  Active+ can support in your Return To Work journey.  

Vocational rehabilitation services 

 ACC offers specialised vocational rehabilitation services to help clients maintain or obtain employment and achieve vocational independence after an injury, and the Active+ Return To Work Service can be leveraged to make the process easier.  These services are crucial for both staying at work and transitioning to new employment when necessary. 

Active+ Stay at Work Service 

The Stay at Work service is based on the principle that recovery is best achieved at work.  It involves collaboration between the client, employer, and healthcare providers to identify and remove barriers to returning to work, developing safe return-to-work plans that promote recovery and rehabilitation. 

Key components  

• Functional strengthening programmes:  Implemented when clients are not yet able to resume pre-injury job tasks. 

• Ongoing support:  Provided until the agreed work outcome is achieved. 

• Professional Involvement:  Services are provided by occupational therapists, occupational health physiotherapists, and physiotherapists, with input from other disciplines as needed.  

Back to Work Service 

For clients who cannot return to their previous type of work, the Back to Work service helps prepare them for new employment that is medically sustainable. This service includes various forms of support to facilitate the transition to new job roles. 

Key components: 

• Employment Preparation: Including CV writing and exercise-based programs. 

• Skills Training: Coordination of training, such as obtaining driver licences or computer skills. 

• Work Experience: Sourcing, setting up, and monitoring work experience, and liaising with employers regarding employment.  

Professionals involved 

• Vocational consultants 

• Physiotherapists 

• Occupational therapists 

• Nutritionists 

• Additional support from ACC 

• Transportation Assistance 

 If getting to and from work becomes a challenge due to your injury, ACC can help organise and contribute towards transportation costs. This can include public transport or even using a private car, ensuring you can continue your recovery without additional financial strain. 

Workstation modifications 

In some cases, recovering at work may require special equipment or modifications to your workstation.  ACC can assist in providing the necessary tools, such as ergonomic chairs or modified keyboards, to facilitate a comfortable and productive work environment. 

Managing ongoing financial support 

Regular medical certification 

To continue receiving weekly compensation, ensure your medical certificates are up to date. Regular visits to your GP or other health providers will help document your recovery progress and confirm your ability to work. 

Long-term Support 

For more severe injuries that require long-term support, ACC will help you develop a comprehensive recovery plan. This plan includes detailed steps for returning to work and outlines the necessary support you'll need along the way. 

Conclusion  

Addressing financial concerns after an injury is crucial for your overall recovery.  With the support of ACC, you can focus on healing without the added stress of financial instability. From weekly compensation to workplace recovery plans and vocational support, ACC provides a robust framework to help you navigate this challenging period.  

Employers can make at referral to us by contacting Active+  and completing the referral form on our website. To contact ACC to request this please contact the Provider helpline on 0800 222 070 or providerhelp@acc.co.nz.

If you have any questions about the Return to Work Services please email erin.holland@activeplus.co.nz.