Media Article - Sunday Star Times

Media Article - Sunday Star Times

There has recently been a feature article published about Te Roopu Taurima O Manukau Trust by Fairfax Media, which may also be picked up by local radio stations and TV networks.

The article explores some serious allegations of abuse made against some staff and also against the roopu toward Mokopuna back in 2011. At that time we conducted a full internal investigation which did result in staff being terminated. The Ministry of Health also conducted an enquiry under Section 101 of the Intellectual Disability Compulsory Care and Rehabilitation Act 2003 (IDCCR Act).

Despite the enquiry specifically focusing on whare in Auckland and more specifically in whare that support Mokopuna with high and complex needs, we have made a number of quality improvements that have been implemented across the service, nationally. These include:

• An anti-abuse campaign ‘it’s not ok’ which was rolled out to all regions

• Implementation of a ‘zero tolerance’ policy on abuse to mokopuna. This means we now involve the Police immediately in any allegations and suspend staff involved while the incident is investigated. We also ensure that whanau members are contacted immediately.

• A significant investment into staff training and performance monitoring, as well as minimum skill level requirements to ensure there is always an appropriate level of supervision, where needed.

• Access for staff to an On-Call support service, which operates 24 hours a day and includes a regional response team and senior management backup

• The appointment of a Clinical Manager, who is dedicated to overseeing, dealing with and reporting on any critical incidents that do occur, in a timely a way.

• Monthly input from psychologists who offer additional insight and expertise, as well as a multi-agency approach through closer working relationships with external partners

Te Roopu Taurima O Manukau Trust remains committed to providing the highest quality level of care for all mokopuna in our service. Our number one priority in doing this is to ensure that all those we care for, are happy and safe. We strive to ensure that all mokopuna live the best lives and that they are empowered with choices and that Whanau are involved at every opportunity.

Should there be any queries with regards to the media article, please don’t hesitate to refer to the contact us tab on our website.

ENDS

© Scoop Media