‘Scared’ DSS staff speak out
Bullying and unsafe management practices are among problems in Nelson disability support service homes, staff say.
The issues have emerged after it was reported that a man was severely scalded in a bath in a Nelson Marlborough Health Disability Support Service (DSS) home in March.
Support workers have spoken out to say that problems are rife in the homes, particularly for those who care for residents with high and complex needs, including conditions like severe autism.
They say their complaints to management have not been properly addressed. In some cases, the staff have been investigated after raising issues.
The staff members don’t want to be named for fear of losing their jobs. They claim they have been bullied by managers and subject to unsafe and unprofessional management practices.
General manager of mental health, addictions and disability support services Jane Kinsey initially said no formal complaints had been received in the past three years, but in a further statement said DSS staff had raised concerns, some of which ‘‘required a formal approach’’.
She said some concerns had been addressed through formal disciplinary proceedings and informal processes, such as coaching. Outcomes had ranged from no action, or allegations not substantiated to dismissal for serious breaches of conduct.
She said the board took bullying and harassment concerns seriously, and serious cases would be elevated to HR and dealt with as soon as possible,and could be subject to a thorough investigation. More minor concerns about interpersonal relationships would be dealt with by management.
The service employs 325 support workers, who work in 53 DSS properties across the region. Of those, four are for people with high and complex needs.
PSA organiser Mike Cunliffe previously said he first raised concerns about poor management at a DSS home for high and complex needs patients, and other DSS properties, in July last year. ‘‘We are aware of a significant amount of individual issues or personal cases from PSA members arising from some areas of Nelson Marlborough Health’s Disability Support Services.’’
Cunliffe said he was currently dealing with about 15 cases relating to DSS staff.
Support worker Matt (not his real name) said he worked in