Life Without Barriers (LWB) Delegates met earlier this week with CPSU NSW industrial staff. This provided an opportunity to bring existing Delegates Darren Borrow and Graeme, together with new Delegates Vicki Ingersole and Gloria Santillana to discuss union-related issues as a group.
Safety and excessive workloads, both physical and mental, in group homes is always an issue, and as such it is important for members to report any instances and concerns through I-sight. Unresolved issues may be reported to the union for follow up.
COVID-19-related issues continue to make up the bulk of concerns for members. Issues related to vaccinations and efforts to keep the virus out of LWB group homes have been the subject of continued discussion with LWB management. LWB is providing support and leading the way in the disability sector by providing up to 14 days’ Special Leave for all staff who are in isolation due to becoming a close contact inside or outside of work.
Last Friday, the NSW Government introduced the requirement for Disability Workers who live or work in a Local Government Area of Concern to have received their first vaccination by August 30. It is understood LWB is currently contacting affected staff members to arrange compliance with this change. Importantly, when it comes to vaccinations, there are no changes to existing rules for those in the remainder of the state. However, the CPSU NSW strongly encourages ALL members to get vaccinated as soon as possible to ensure the safety of themselves, their families, their customers, and the community at large.
The next Joint Consultative meeting with LWB management is September 2021. We will keep members updated on current issues through union bulletins, which are available through the CPSU NSW website. Click HERE to view the last JCC update. Additionally, the Disabilities Team has recently set up a Facebook page dedicated to CPSU NSW members employed in the disability sector. Please click here to access this page HERE.
Due to lockdown restrictions, we are not currently permitted to visit workplaces. However, CPSU NSW representatives are available through virtual meetings and to remotely attend team meetings. If you would like to arrange a meeting, please let us know.
We also continue to support individual members in investigation processes and disciplinary meetings during COVID-19 lockdown. This can be done via virtual meetings. If you need industrial support or advice, please contact our Member Support Centre on 1300 772 679.
THE CPSU NSW wants to ensure all LWB Disability Workers are safe, supported, and not financially disadvantaged during this difficult period.
If you have any concerns about the above or any other issues, please contact the CPSU NSW.
Ask them to join the CPSU NSW at www.cpsunsw.org.au.
