Partnership Resource Centre
Learning by Example: A Case Study of Partnership Resource Centre Practices - The Aubert Home of Compassion
1. Introduction
Aged care has always been a physically and emotionally demanding part of the health care sector in which to work. In recent years, increased demand through societal and demographic changes, increased compliance requirements, and skill shortages have placed additional pressure on those working in this sector. One New Zealand organisation facing such challenges is the Aubert Home of Compassion.
The Aubert Home of Compassion (Aubert) is a rest home and hospital based in Wanganui. It is one of a number of New Zealand homes of compassion owned by the Sisters of Compassion. In 2006, the Partnership Resource Centre (PRC) was invited to work with the team at Aubert and the relevant unions on a project intended to bring about a positive shift in relationships and culture in their workplace and, in doing so, better address their current concerns.
This report is based on the findings of a case study by Martin, Jenkins & Associates[1] and highlights how the PRC worked with the employer and the unions on a joint project to help create a workplace culture they can be proud of.
The Aubert Home of Compassion
Aubert first opened its doors in 1931, and it has the capacity to fill 59 beds, providing both rest home and hospital-based care. It moved to its current site in 1964 and was refurbished extensively in 1999. The home is governed locally by a Board of Directors based in Wanganui. Like all the Homes of Compassion, it is overseen by a Compassion Trust Board based in Wellington.
There are 79 staff at Aubert working in a range of occupations including nursing, administration, gardening, maintenance, kitchen, laundry and cleaning services, diversional therapy and caregiving. There is a mix of casual and permanent staff.
Two unions cover staff in this workplace: the New Zealand Nurses Organisation and the Service & Food Workers Union.
[1] Learning by Example: A Case Study of Partnership Resource Centre Practices. Commissioned by the Partnership Resource Centre, Department of Labour. March, 2008.