workcover discrimination

[greatshakes]

Hi all

Can anyone tell me if there are any procedures for people who are being bullied and discrimated against by employers because they are on workcover? I am not the subject but am asking because some of the workers at a facility who ended up on workcover due to inadequate staffing

have been bullied by the organisation so that even if they are sick they are too scared to take time off. This leaves those others taking on additional work as well as their own if the staff aren't well enough to cope. I believe that in nursing, the pressures are great enough without additional management coming down on their shoulders for legitimate claims.

Because of the many problems arising and staff requiring support I have made my feelings known re certain issues: ie the EENs, while very capable were singly in charge of the floor on two consecutive days and concerned about the outcome should a problem occur when there was no RN available. I had asked to see a registered nurses but on both occasions none were present. When I questioned the legality of this I was told the manager was the RN in charge and she was in the office but one day she wasn't in the area at all. I was fobbed off. I offered to be a support person and mediator for the nurses and residents but because I am the wife of a resident I was told the staff must not burden me. I replied "It wasn't a burden and I'd initiated the confidence of some staff members". Management advised the correct procedure was to go through official channels but I brought up the fact that management was downright intimidating and staff needed to have someone to vent to. I do not regret my action in offering to help these staff members. They are fabulous. They deserve to be supported but again they have been disciplined and bullied into shutting up and just getting along the best way they can (and a note in the communication book to say that they are forbiddent to say anything to rellies or residents re work situations). I have put in to date two incident reports and some complaints due to inadequacy of the staff numbers and reiterated that the staff werevery good but were unable to assist redidents more, due to fewer numbers in staff. The QNU has been told on several occasions of staff concerns and bullying and has done nothing. Has anyone else had this happen and what is the advice you'd offer? Thanks. It goes without saying that while I am still waiting for a job that none will be offered to me by this facility. Oh dear!!!

Thanks:o