WHO: HSU aged care workers, Sonia Hornery MP, HSU Asst Secretary Lynne Russell
WHERE: Flag poles on Longworth Ave outside Booth Building, Wallsend, Newcastle
WHEN: 1pm Thursday 6 July
Dozens of HSU aged care workers will rally to keep the public Wallsend Aged Care Facility open amid fears the NSW government is closing it by stealth.
The Hunter New England Local Health District has not been filling beds at the facility for the past two years and has now consolidated the remaining residents onto one floor. Out of 98 beds, 68 are empty.
HSU members will demand answers from the government in a rally in Wallsend at 1pm on Thursday.
HSU Assistant Secretary / Treasurer Lynne Russell said: “This aged care facility has a proud history and we’re deeply concerned it’s being closed by stealth.
“The government needs to answer why beds are not being filled, especially when other local facilities are full and hospital beds are being taken up with people who could be looked after in aged care.
“This facility is needed and should not be closed. But at the very least, the hardworking and dedicated staff - including cleaners, food services workers and administrative workers - deserve information about what’s going on.”
Contact details:
Tim Brunero: 0405 285 547
Charlie Moore: 0452 606 171