27 July 2023
The Eastern Community Mental Health Service (ECMHS) in Tranmere has withdrawn plans for contingency staffing following concerns raised by members.
The ECMHS had introduced contingency plans to address staff shortages following a number of voluntary departures but had done so without consultation.
ANMF officers and the Worksite Representative (WSR) attended a hearing last week in the South Australian Employment Tribunal (SAET) on behalf of members. Following the conciliation hearing between ANMF (SA) and the Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN) the following will now occur:
- The ‘contingency staffing’ plan will be withdrawn. CALHN has committed to attempting to staff ECMHS with the usual full staffing profile by utilising measures such as overtime, use of casuals and ensuring patients who no longer need the service are discharged in a timely manner.
ANMF officers met with staff on Tuesday, 25 July, to discuss potential solutions to assist with recruitment and retention, with CALHN executives and ANMF (SA) officials due to meet later in the week.
“We congratulate members on alerting us with their concerns and we will continue to work with members and the employer to develop long-term solutions,’’ ANMF (SA) CEO/Secretary Adj Associate Professor Elizabeth Dabars AM said.
“Consultation with affected staff is essential to achieving desirable outcomes on behalf of all parties and a more effective, inclusive workplace culture.’’