The Salvation Army redress

Who can make a claim of abuse to The Salvation Army?

Making a claim can bring a range of emotions. It can be good to have help and support during this process. You can make a claim if:

• you experienced abuse while in the care of The Salvation Army or
• the Salvation Army was responsible for the abuser having contact with you.

You can make a claim by email or phone

To make a claim, you can:

• email: abuse.support@salvationarmy.org.nz   
• phone the Territorial Headquarters at (04) 384 5649 and ask for the Royal Commission Response Officer.

They may respond to you within five working days.

You might also decide to request any records they have about you. Find out how to request records from The Salvation Army.

You may want to have a lawyer represent you in your claim, but it is not essential. If you cannot afford a lawyer, you may be eligible for legal aid. You can learn more about getting a lawyer and other legal advice. 

What happens after I make a claim?

The Salvation Army’s Royal Commission Response Officer will usually organise a meeting with you, to learn about your complaint. You can bring a support person with you to the meeting. You can also bring a legal representative (for example, a lawyer). 

If the Salvation Army’s Royal Commission Response Officer accepts your claim, they may offer you the following types of redress (making things right):

• an in-person meeting with a senior Salvation Army officer (who will not wear their Salvation Army uniform unless you ask them to), who will listen to your story, apologise and acknowledge responsibility
• help with the cost of counselling or psychological care (up to 12 sessions, but further sessions can be negotiated)
• help with reporting the abuse to the Police
• a payment of money (compensation)
• access to Salvation Army services and support in the community.

The Salvation Army may also pay your reasonable legal costs, or a contribution to those costs. But check with the Salvation Army’s Royal Commission Response Officer about this. 

Learn more about redress offered by The Salvation Armyopen_in_new.