Recently, workplace representatives and management formed a Union-Specific Consultative Committee (USCC) to engage in a meaningful, solution-focused forum to ensure a safe, fair workplace for everyone. In a very short time, the committee has successfully negotiated some positive outcomes, particularly regarding upcoming changes to the workplace.

These outcomes include changes to the workplace assessments regarding the medication competency of carers. These assessments are now only conducted by trained and accredited workplace assessors. Also, the transition period has been extended to two weeks with potential for longer if needed. Carers will now be given advanced notice that they will be conducting doing a ‘walkaround’ medication session with the workplace assessors. And finally, a copy of the current EA is now available in the staff room.

Congratulations to all who are involved with the USCC and to all members who raised their concerns. Your organiser Karen Wiles will continue to support members through this process and will continue to have routine site visits. In the meantime, support from your union is only ever a phone call away. Karen can be contacted on 0408 164 519 or the HSU Member Services Division can also be contacted on 1300 478 679.