The earthquake in Christchurch early yesterday afternoon has had
a devastating impact on a community still recovering from an
earthquake just a few months ago. Yesterday's event has resulted in
significant loss of life, widespread injury, and major
infrastructure and property damage.
The conditions in Christchurch are extremely challenging:
â-º Rescue efforts are still underway and that
is the priority activity
â-º Mobile communications are severely impacted
with requests for limited use of mobile phones
â-º Land lines and internet access are not
available in some areas or are experiencing overload
â-º The main form of communication is currently
text messaging
â-º Roads are closed and there are large areas
without power
â-º Major debris, uprising silt and sewerage are
throughout the area
â-º Water supplies are being restricted to
drinking use only
Despite the challenging conditions, EAP services are available and
being provided in New Zealand, and from Australia. The Emergency
Support Response Plan was enabled immediately yesterday and our
team in Christchurch are this morning assessing how to best provide
support given the logistical difficulties. Additional professional
staff are arriving in Christchurch early this morning to provide
the required support.
Our New Zealand national EAP number - 0800 327 669 - remains open
24 hours however may be impacted by the telecommunications system
overload being experienced. If you have employees you want to
support or are experiencing difficulty getting access in New
Zealand please call us directly in Australia to discuss.
For emergency contact numbers in New Zealand and regular updates
on conditions please visit the
Canterbury Earthquake Site.
For anyone in Australia concerned about family or friends please
call the DFAT Hotline on 1300 555 135
The past few months have presented a relentless series of events
that challenge our resilience, our sense of security and safety,
and our overall wellbeing. Many in our community have been directly
impacted and many more are providing care and support following
events they did not imagine possible. This is a critical time to be
alert to the wellbeing of everyone in your team. If you need any
assistance please call us for support.
Michele Grow
Chief Executive Officer
Davidson Trahaire Corpsych
E: mgrow@davcorp.com.au
T: +61 2 8295 2230
M: +61 418 210 875