Kia ora

 

I am reaching out to ask for your help and support in gathering stories from former and serving NZDF personnel and their families. After my open letter to the Minister of Defence about the struggles of being a military family was published, the amount of support and messages I received made it clear that something more needed to be done. I met with the Associate Minister of Defence who said gathering and sharing stories would be the best way to get decision makers to listen and influence change. So I have launched a platform for all serving and former members of the NZDF, their whanau and any civilizations associated with the NZDF to submit their stories and experiences in regards to pay, housing, conditions and welfare. Find it here: https://form.jotform.com/241840862133049 

 

I am wondering if you would please support me and share this around through your networks? The more voices we have the better to advocate for change and raise public awareness of our daily reality and struggles, particularly in regards to housing and pay. I have created copy and added it below for you to make sharing this easier. I have also updated my website with all the relevant information, including the Minister's full response to my letter which many have asked to see. https://www.erinspeedy.com/nzdf-advocacy

 

I reached out to the RSA and NZDF with my concerns and for support and not heard back, hence why I have taken matters into my own hands. If you could please share the submission form around that would be much appreciated.

 

Thank you for your help.

Nga mihi,

Erin

 

Copy for external organisations to promote: Are you keen to have your voice heard on the state of your housing, your pay and wages and welfare of yourself and your family? If you’re a current or former serving NZDF member, a family member or civi living in NZDF housing, this is your chance to tell your story about anything relating to the conditions and welfare provided by the NZDF. You can write your own letter, share your stories and personal experiences which will be collected and collated, written into a report and sent through to decision makers to raise public awareness about what it’s like on the ground for personnel and whanau. As they say, sunlight is the best disinfectant. Please take some time to fill this in and share far and wide around your NZDF networks to gather as many submissions as possible. Your anonymity will be protected and AFDA respected at all costs. https://form.jotform.com/241840862133049

 

Nga mihi and thank you everyone for your support.