In October 2021, FinCap conducted a national survey of financial mentors to identify the impact of COVID-19 pandemic response on their workloads. The survey also explored the impact of the pandemic on the whānau they support.

The 2021 snapshot found the impact of COVID-19 on whānau and the workload of financial mentors was significant. It showed an increase in the volume of financial hardship and distress cases for many mentors. The increase was largely due to a marked increase in the complexity of cases.

Two of the key drivers of case complexity are increases in issues with housing affordability and mental health needs. These included rent arrears, access to emergency housing and costs associated with poor quality rental accommodation, which lead to navigating more stakeholders, processes and agencies.

You can read the full report here.

FinCap - Impacts of COVID 19 on building financial capability: 2021 snapshot