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The following justice services and programmes are available under COVID-19 alert levels 1 to 4:
While all services are available under each alert level, some services (which are not categorised as essential) may be suspended under Alert Level 4, if they are unable to be delivered safely.
At all alert levels, all service providers must operate safely, which means:
At Alert Level 1, services can operate normally. Service providers are expected to:
Video conferencing or phone contact may be used, but not where the service would be more effectively delivered face-to-face.
Alert Level 2 allows for services to open and be delivered similarly to Alert Level 1, where this can be done safely. Services can also be provided at the participant’s premises (for example, in homes).
Operating safely under Alert Level 2 means providers will be expected to:
Video conferencing or phone contact may be used, but not where the service would be more effectively delivered face-to-face.
Under Alert Level 3, all services can operate as long as they are able to do so safely. However, participants can’t be seen on their own premises (their homes). Services will be delivered remotely.
Service providers are required to work from home unless that is not possible. Workplaces can only open if:
Providers cannot offer services that involve face-to-face contact, unless it is an essential service, emergency or critical situation. Where essential service providers are requested to provide face-to-face services by other essential services (such as Police) or in emergency or critical situations, staff must be provided with the appropriate personal protective equipment.
The Ministry of Justice has categorised the following services as essential:
These services are deemed essential because they:
At Alert Level 4, essential services are expected to continue operating in line with the relevant alert level requirements, meaning that they are available for service participants.
All other services may continue if they are able to meet the alert level requirements and all staff are working from home.
Service providers may only engage with participants and deliver services using remote technology and phone-based communication.
Providers cannot offer services that involve face-to-face contact, unless it is an essential service, emergency or critical situation. Where essential service providers are requested to provide face-to-face services by other essential services (such as Police) or in emergency or critical situations, staff must be provided with the appropriate personal protective equipment.
If you are a provider of these services and have any further questions, please contact your contract manager.
If you wish to access these services or have questions about the availability and delivery of services, please contact your local service provider.
Family violence
Public register of family violence safety and non-violence programme providers
Victim Support
Victim support website(external link)
0800 842 846 (24hr service) for all victims of serious crime.
Restorative justice
List of restorative justice providers
Parenting through separation and family dispute resolution
Find a service to help with disputes
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