Southern Cross Care (Vic) recognised as White Ribbon Workplace

Over the past 18 months, the aged care provider has actively created a safer and more respectful workplace for women, through effective leadership, resource allocation, communication, human resources policy development and staff training.

The White Ribbon Australia Workplace Accreditation Program recognises workplaces that are taking active steps to prevent and respond to violence against women, accrediting them as a White Ribbon Workplace.

Welcoming the accreditation, Southern Cross Care (Vic) chief executive officer (CEO), Andrew Newton, says: “I am extremely delighted and proud of how our staff have embraced the work and commitment that comes with White Ribbon accreditation.

“With over 88 per cent of our staff being women, we see it as our responsibility to creating a safe and conducive workplace which does not discriminate against women and is free from any forms of violence,” he says.

In April, Southern Cross Care (Vic) introduced special paid leave for employees who are experiencing domestic or family violence at home, providing employees with leave to seek safe accommodation, to attend medical appointments, counselling or legal proceedings, or to arrange alternative care or education arrangements for their children.

“By supporting our employees, Southern Cross Care is not only making a change in these women’s lives, but also influencing the future generation,” Mr Newton continues.

“Change does not come overnight. All of us need to play a role in changing people’s attitudes and mindsets towards women, and sending a strong message that violence against women has no place in our society.”

Driving force behind the Southern Cross Care (Vic)’s commitment to White Ribbon is recently retired former CEO Jan Horsnell.

“It symbolises and supports the principles that underpin this great organisation and the culture that is embedded throughout,” she says.

“I only hope that many other organisations will also take the opportunity to speak out and take action to eradicate this despicable crime of domestic violence.”

Southern Cross Care (Vic) received outstanding achievements in five key areas of the 15 assessment criteria, including leadership commitment, internal and external communication, documentation of policies and procedures, and response to victims.

Congratulating Southern Cross Care (Vic) on becoming a White Ribbon Workplace, White Ribbon Australia CEO Libby Davies, says: “Southern Cross Care (Vic) is now officially recognised by White Ribbon Australia as a pioneer in contributing to national cultural change to prevent and respond to violence against women.

“The organisation has evidenced commitment to gender equality, supporting employees to be more respectful across all spheres.”