HealthShare remains determined to close the Bear Bites Cafe at Westmead Children’s Hospital, despite HSU delegates submitting a petition of 3,000 signatures calling for the decision to be reversed. HSU members have been told that HealthShare intends to cease operations on 25 October 2024.

Now is the time to act. Will you take further action to save Bear Bites?

Complete this survey to make your pledge today!

In July this year, HealthShare advised the union office of its decision to close Bear Bites. HealthShare failed to provide any reasoning for its decision and did not specify an intended closure date at the time. HSU delegates and activists immediately circulated a petition calling for the cafe to remain open, with a clear message to HealthShare: Hands Off Our Cafeteria!

In September, 15 HSU delegates and activists from across the hospital met with HealthShare representatives and submitted 3,000 signatures calling for the closure to be reversed. Members spoke passionately about the importance of the service not just to staff, but to patient families – some of whom spend months by the bedsides of their children and can’t afford to eat anywhere else.

HealthShare committed to responding to the petition by the end of September, and despite the concerns raised by HSU delegates, have advised the union they intend to proceed with the closure.

There’s no time to waste. Complete the survey now and pledge to take further action to save Bear Bites!

Know someone who isn’t an HSU member? Encourage them to join our Union today and have a say at work. We are always stronger when we stand together.

New members can join at www.hsu.asn.au/join or call 1300 478 679.