Ask Shaye
Running out of sick leave
I work at a public hospital and was recently sent home prior to commencing my shift because of a high temperature. I am running out of sick leave. What happens next time if I am sent home and asked to get tested for COVID-19?
This scenario has been the topic of considerable debate. The Association and other public health unions have been pressing for an enhanced paid special leave entitlement, both in access and quantum. Those discussions continue and now include the Department of Premier and Cabinet. However, the Ministry has, in its latest Workforce Advice, indicated that: “Where sick leave is exhausted, Health agencies may grant additional sick leave on a case-by- case basis.”
I am so grateful to NSWNMA for support over the last 45 years or more. I was placed on the SCR by a former DON at a previous employment. I was also terminated as a result of unsubstantiated allegations. With huge input from NSWNMA , and letters of support from my work colleagues, the issue was taken to the Industrial Tribunal and thankfully overturned. My name was eventually removed from the SCR. However the stress and loss of income has remained with me.
With the changes made, hopefully no innocent Nurses and Midwives will go through the humiliation and stress that I went through again.