When "Soldiering On" is Misunderstood: How We Can Help You Get the Support You Deserve
By Allister Rose, Founder and Managing Director, Hatikvah Blue Hope Foundation
In the case of Jones v Accident Compensation Corporation [2013] NZHC 2458, the High Court of New Zealand addressed a crucial issue: the tendency of authorities to misinterpret continued work efforts as evidence of fitness, rather than acknowledging the persistence of an injury. Although this case dealt with a physical injury, it highlights an essential principle that applies equally to mental injuries like PTSD: Just because you keep showing up to work, it doesn’t mean you’re fit for duty.
Why This Matters for Police Workers
As police officers, you face unique challenges and pressures that most people never have to endure. The culture within the police service often values resilience and the ability to “soldier on,” even when you’re struggling internally. But when this perseverance is misinterpreted as evidence that you are not injured, it can prevent you from receiving the support and compensation you need.
The Jones v ACC case showed that continuing to work despite pain or injury does not equate to being fit for work. This principle is particularly relevant to mental health conditions like PTSD. Police workers frequently find themselves trying to push through symptoms of mental injury, and sadly, this is often misread as a sign of strength or recovery.
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Our Mission: To Ensure Your Perseverance Isn't Used Against You
At the Hatikvah Blue Hope Foundation, we understand the reality of working through mental injuries. Our mission is to ensure that serving and retired New Zealand Police officers receive the support and recognition they deserve for the mental health challenges they face. We specialize in navigating the complexities of the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) claims process, advocating for those struggling with PTSD and other mental injuries.
If you’re a serving or retired police officer, or you know someone in the service who’s silently carrying the burden of a mental injury, we encourage you to reach out. Your perseverance should not be used against you—it should be a call to action for the support you’re entitled to.
Why Contacting Us Matters
We can guide you through the ACC processes and help you avoid common pitfalls where “soldiering on” is mistaken for recovery. Our approach is grounded in ensuring that all medical and psychological evidence is thoroughly examined so that your claims are accurately and fairly assessed.
Reach Out to Us
You are not alone. If you are a current or former police officer struggling with mental injury, or if you know someone who is, please contact us at the Hatikvah Blue Hope Foundation. We’re here to support you and your loved ones, advocating for your right to proper care and compensation. Remember, reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness—it’s a step towards strength and healing.
Contact us today to learn how we can support you through these challenging times. Let’s work together to ensure no police worker is left behind.
Key comment: "The Jones v ACC case showed that continuing to work despite pain or injury does not equate to being fit for work."