Beneficiary Advisory Service

What is B.A.S.?

The Beneficiary Advisory Service,
BAS is an organisation specialising in welfare law and low income issues.

We are a Charitable Trust [under the name of Christchurch Peoples Resource Centre] that was incorporated in 1995 to develop projects that come out of and meet the needs of low-income people. Our only objective is the wellbeing of low income people. Although we work with a wide range of different groups, we are not connected with or controlled by any other organisation or Government Department.

We have a strong commitment to social justice and a fair society and are part of a network of similar organisations. Our aim is to help people survive in a society where it is increasingly difficult to do so.

Where we came from:

Our organisation has had 20 years experience of working on low income issues and is expert in welfare law and Work & Income policies and processes.
Our workers are derived from our client group and so have considerable personal expe-rience of the benefit system. Over the years, many have come to BAS for help and stayed on as workers.
Beneficiary Advisory Service gives beneficiaries information about the benefit system and therefore an opportunity to gain knowledge.

What we do:

BAS gives practical, expert advice and assis-tance on issues experienced by people on benefits and low incomes. We concentrate on welfare issues but can also help with ACC and Employment matters. We also are able to assist clients in / from domestic violence situations. If you have a problem that no one else has been able to help with, we may be able assist.

Who we are:

Our workers have encyclopaedic knowledge of the welfare system and can apply it promptly and efficiently for the benefit of our clients.

Who we help:

The Welfare system is constantly changing and many people's experience is that they do not get the help they need, even if they are desperate; some don't even know they can seek assistance! Many people are now on benefits who have never had to rely on them before and don't know where to start. Some people feel so crushed by the system, they need help to continue. We can help.

How we can help:

We can provide information and advocacy that will assist you in dealing with Work and Income, other Government Departments, your employer and tribunals; if necessary, we can provide you with direct support. The Welfare System and the rules relating to Benefits is very complex and it is often difficult for people on low incomes to get or be sure that they are receiving their correct entitlements. We also prepare and present cases to Benefit Review Committees.

Your Rights:

Apart from general entitlements, many people are unaware of their rights in the system, e.g. how to challenge a decision or how you should be treated. Not only can we help you know what your rights are, but can help you ensure you get the treatment you deserve.

Contact us

Phone Contact: (03) 379 8787

Residential & Postal Address:
Christchurch Community House,
301 Tuam St, Christchurch Central 8011

Office Hours:
9.30am - 2.00pm Monday to Friday

Email Contact: bas.cprc@gmail.com
or Visit our website
or look us up on facebook, we can be found at: @BeneficiaryAdvisoryService

CyberPlace