A question of fairness for bereaved families

A question of fairness for bereaved families

An opinion piece published in The Post by Child Cancer Foundation Chief Executive Monica Briggs MNZM has highlighted an important issue facing families following the death of a child – the significant difference in funeral assistance available depending on the cause of death.

The article, A Simple Question of Fairness for Bereaved Families, draws attention to the disparity between the funeral support available when a child dies from an ACC-covered injury and the assistance available when a child dies from cancer or another serious illness.

As Monica writes, families experiencing the death of a child are already facing an unimaginable loss. For some, the financial cost of arranging a funeral can add another significant burden at an exceptionally difficult time.

The Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand is referenced in the article, with our indicative funeral cost figures helping to illustrate the gap between the financial assistance available and the actual cost of arranging a funeral.

The article notes that funeral costs can range from around $6,500 to more than $20,000, while the maximum Work and Income Funeral Grant referenced in the article is $2,697.43, subject to eligibility criteria. By comparison, families whose child dies from an injury covered by ACC may receive a funeral grant of up to $8,236.40.

This is an issue our Association has also highlighted: the importance of funeral assistance more accurately reflecting the costs families face and enabling people to farewell those they love with dignity.

Monica calls for funeral assistance for children who die from illness to be brought into line with the assistance available following an accidental injury, describing it as a practical change that would provide more equitable support to grieving families.

It is an important contribution to the wider conversation about how New Zealand supports families at one of the most difficult times in their lives.

Read the full story:

A Simple Question of Fairness for Bereaved Families
By Monica Briggs MNZM, Chief Executive, Child Cancer Foundation.
This story was originally published in The Post and is shared here with permission from the author.