Wed, May 5, 2021 11:00 AM

DHB bid to tackle workplace distress

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Paula Hulburt

Health bosses have appointed a staff member to tackle wellbeing concerns in the wake of allegations of mental distress in the workforce.

Nelson Marlborough Health have supported the internal appointment of a Health and Safety rep to the alcohol and drug addictions service.

The move comes as government body Worksafe New Zealand dropped two official workplace improvement notices late last year.

General Manager Mental Health, Addictions and Disability Support Jane Kinsey says the new role is a welcome addition.

Safety reps work with teams like the Addictions Service and line managers to identify and resolve health, safety and wellbeing concerns, she says.

“Anyone with such concerns is being encouraged to talk directly with the general manager, professional leads or the health and safety team.”

Senior management came under fire last year from some staff struggling with workload pressures.

The Workplace notices stated that the DHB had, or were likely to have, contravened the Health and Safety Act 2015.

Jane says the NMH addictions service offers a vital service in a highly professional way with the resources available.

“There is a high demand for assistance from the community for this service.

“Our team provide a great service within available resources and the public should remain confident that their needs are able to be met.

“At times this may mean some people seeking assistance will need to be prioritised,” she says.

The Worksafe inspector who carried out the initial report highlighted concerns over the handling of mental health concerns and stress.

Staff needed to develop appropriate training around bullying, harassment and discrimination, he said.

Worksafe were contacted several times for comment.

It’s ok to ask for help:
In an emergency: Phone 111
1737: Free phone or text 1737 to reach a counsellor
Healthline: Free phone Healthline to talk to a nurse 0800 611 116
Free helplines available
Depression: 0800 111 757 or text 4202
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865
Youthline: 0800 376 633 or text 234

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