Hi everyone, for those who don’t know me my name is Sandy Hockley, I am a nurse and a past Lyndoch employee of approximately 39 years.
I have agreed to speak directly to you today because I can, and because so many ex and current staff are unable to.
During my time at Lyndoch Living I have seen many changes, but sadly not always for the best.
Things that I witnessed over the last six years:
Bullying and harassment.
Intimidation
Low staff morale
Staff/residents unable to voice concerns.
Poor OHS conditions.
Working conditions eroded.
Poor resident care.(which is reflected in the recent failing of standards) something unheard of under past managements.
Just to name a few.
And it may sound like a small thing, but Paddy (my dog) here who came to work with me for a year and a half was suddenly told not to come anymore.
Most of the residents in my wing were devastated and residents and staff sent a signed petition to the Board but nothing changed. I often wonder if the Board even got to see that petition, but still have a copy if any member would like to see it.
And I refer back to point two, staff/residents being unable to voice concerns. It’s the small things that make the residents days and make such a big difference to their lives.
Like all of us here today I am concerned about residential care and don’t want to see Lyndoch Living fail and I will continue to do all I can to ensure that doesn’t happen.