The case for change in our care system

E tū has launched a new report, explaining the problems across the care and support sector, and what we need to do about them.

The Transforming Care Report uses case study interviews with E tū members, a survey of over 1,500 workers, and input from a wide community of other stakeholders, to shine a light on a system in crisis.

The report was offi cially launched at Parliament in November, by the E tū Community Support Services Industry Council, and was received by Members of Parliament representing both the Government and the Opposition.

E tū members were interviewed by Dame Judy McGregor for the report, explaining what the crisis in the sector meant to them. Here is a snapshot of their comments:

The money is so bad for the actual value of what we are doing. It is very heavy work and the cost of living is going up and up. But we are still paid the same.

Sometimes I have to do medication and I am anxious about making a mistake. We shouldn’t be asked to handle medications, but we do it to help the client. The stress affects me - I often can’t sleep and it impacts on my family as well.

Ana Funaki - Residential aged care

I have to pay for my tyres, car repairs, registration and fuel. The cost of running a car has gone up like everything else. At the moment, we can’t save, we can’t take holidays, we can’t eat out and we need to put food on the table. Even though we budget tightly, we struggle to pay our debts.

Amarjeet Gautam - Home and community support

We are often punched or spat on, have hot porridge thrown at us, and one client runs naked around the facility. I have hidden in the toilets to avoid being punched.

I would really like to have a break in the weekend and be with the family. For ten years I have been working when they have had time off and when they are off I am working.

My challenge for the Prime Minister is to do one day in this hands-on job. Then he would appreciate how much we are underpaid.

Sushila Devi - Residential aged care