While MLHD has not confirmed which of its branches is involved in the investigation, the Pastoral Times believes it extends to Deniliquin.
The Pastoral Times has seen an email from Health Services Union NSW secretary Gerard Hayes which states, inter alia:
“We discovered serious concerns raised against senior management, including racism, risking workers’ safety, directing workers to commit unlawful acts, regular interference in selection panels, and misusing the performance management and code of conduct procedures to dismiss workers based on personal preference.”
MLHD would not shed much light on the investigations, only saying “the safety of our staff and patients is our highest priority”.
“Murrumbidgee Local Health District has initiated an independent workforce culture assessment of our Community Mental Health Drug and Alcohol services in response to concerns raised in a complaint received last year,” the MLHD statement continued.
“The assessment is ongoing.”
Specific questions from the Pastoral Times relating to the number and nature of complaints, the branches involved, and if any staff have been suspended or terminated as a result of the complaints were not answered.
The assessment commissioned by MLHD is being carried out by independent consultant Janice McLeay, who confirmed she “interviewed more than 70 current and former staff from all over the district” over the period of one week.
She would not reveal specifics about concerns raised in those interviews.
“I spoke with anyone who contacted me up to January 10,” she confirmed.
“Now I am working on analysing the information and considering what practical recommendations I might make for the Local Health District’s consideration.
“The interviewees were asked to tell me about their experiences in the workplace. They were not asked to provide solutions.
“As for the timeline, I’m afraid I can’t be precise.
“As you can imagine, with so many interviews and information provided to me, it will take a little while yet.”
Ms McLeay’s investigation has come to light after an email regarding a separate Health Services Union NSW investigation was seen by online media outlet Riverina Region.
The email from HSU NSW secretary Gerard Hayes refers to the union’s broad findings from a six-month investigation.
The report itself, which was submitted to NSW Health Minister Ryan Park on December 9, has still not been made public.
“HSU members have done great work and prevailed upon MLHD to appoint independent investigator Janice McLeay.
“All members are encouraged to speak to Ms McLeay if they have seen any of the behaviour mentioned above.”
Through the Mental Health Drug and Alcohol unit, MLHD says it offers specialist drug and alcohol services “that offers safe and non-judgemental support, advice and treatment”.
Drug and alcohol clinicians are based across the region, in each of the community mental health, drug and alcohol services.
• If you or someone you know is affected by drug or alcohol use and need help, call our free AccessLine on 1800 800 944, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In an emergency, always call 000 (triple zero).
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