Members of the Service & Food Workers Union Nga Ringa Tota are today on strike due to a break down of talks at negotiations.
 
Care Givers, Cleaners, Kitchen & Laundry staff, Nurse Aides and Reception that are employed at LEXHAM PARK REST HOME/HOSPITAL voted to strike after their employer Radius Residential Care offered members a 2.5% wage increase.
 
Members of the union are insulted by the offer given that the government has released 7% funding over the last 12 months.
 
 Radius Residential Care has 22 facilities across the country and acquired Lexham Park approximately 2 years ago.
 
Staff have committed to their jobs and deliver a high quality of service to the residents of Lexham Park.
 
All of our members say that their work environment is one that demands a high degree of hard work to maintain the quality of care the residents need and say that they are worth more than 2.5% or 25 cents.
 
This is a clear example of corporates like Radius profiteering in the aged care sector at the expense of the staff and elderly residents.
 
Staff are often needed to do extra shifts due to staff shortages. The high turnover of staff at Lexham Park is a typical example of the industry due to the wage rates being offered.
 
Staff believe that they have built productivity for Radius & without the skills and passion they bring with them to the job the employer would not enjoy the successes. Work, Life and Balance for aged care workers is an issue.
 
The job demands flexibility without caring what the impact it has on people's lives.
 
 
For more information
 
Christine Grant - SFWU Nga Ringa Tota Union Organiser
Mobile 0275 274122
 
Shane Vuglar- SFWU Nga Ringa Tota Union Lead Organiser
Mobile 0275 446941