The continued aftershocks in Canterbury are a reminder that we still need to be extremely careful. We will not go back to the Christchurch offices until we are 100% sure staff will be safe.
Property
Both central Christchurch properties now have ‘green stickers’ on them, meaning they have been checked by the Council and appear safe. And with the shrinking of the cordon area they are now outside the cordon. However, we are still not satisfied they are habitable. Issues remain with drinking water, ICT, air conditioning and other services. The possible impact of the further quakes also needs to be considered.
So there is still no change to previous advice that both Trust House and Charles Luney House will be closed this week, ie until Friday 10 September.
Northwood branch is operating well above normal logistical capacity so we continue to ask people to limit their contact with the branch to essential business only.
Staff
Dr White will be visiting Christchurch tomorrow to see the situation for herself, to support staff in any way she can and to thank everyone for the huge efforts they have put in so far.
We would remind any Canterbury staff who would like to talk to someone about what has happened that they can access the EAP service free of charge. Staff can either contact Stratos who are the programme providers via freephone 0800 STRATOS (787 2867) or contact their Manager or Human Resources who can also provide you with the phone numbers.
Remember, any mail that would normally have been sent to Trust House and Charles Luney House is now being redirected to Northwood Branch.
Clients
We have finished contacting our serious injury clients in the area and they all report being safe. Two referrals have been made to the Civil Defence emergency team, who will make face to face contact. Contact has also been made with providers in the area to ensure they can continue to service our clients.
Information in different languages
Clients with limited English can use emergency telephone helplines that have been set up. The helplines are now linked to ‘Language Line’ which has professional interpreters in 40 languages. The helpline numbers are:
- Ministry of Social Development's Government help line 0800 779 997 for information about all government services and support
- Ministry of Health’s health line 0800 611 116
- Christchurch City Council public information helpline (03) 941 8999.
Iron Mountain Christchurch services on hold until further notice
Iron Mountain’s Christchurch facility has been closed due to damage caused in the earthquake. Iron Mountain staff members will not be allowed back on site until a safety report has been completed. This will mean that any requests for the South Island will be held until the safety report has been done. For more information please contact Christine Powell, Information & Knowledge Analyst on Ext 45893.
ICT
There is no significant update since yesterday.
Further information
Further updates will be provided as events progress.