Site Operations Manager Ryan Midgley has been invited to speak about Eldercare’s White Ribbon workplace accreditation at the industry’s national conference in Sydney and said he felt ‘privileged’ to be given the opportunity.

“I’m excited to share the excellent work Eldercare has undertaken to achieve White Ribbon Workplace Accreditation and the work we’re doing to support employees who are experiencing violence,” said Ryan.

“As a White Ribbon Ambassador, I am extremely passionate about ending violence against women so the National Summit is a great forum to raise awareness about the issue and, hopefully, encourage more aged care providers to start the steps towards seeking accreditation.”

Mr Midgley said his aim for the presentation was to highlight the importance of supporting staff who are victims of family violence and to demonstrate the ‘positive effects’ the White Ribbon Workplace Accreditation Program is having on Eldercare’s workforce.

“Domestic violence is not something to keep behind closed doors,” said Ryan.

“Employers can play a significant role in supporting staff who are experiencing violence and, given the high proportion of women who are employed in the aged care sector, I believe there is an opportunity for the industry as a whole to take a stand on this important community issue.

“Accreditation is not the ‘end goal’ for Eldercare – we remain committed to promoting a ‘zero tolerance’ attitude towards violence which aligns with our organisational values of respect, accountability and connection.”

Eldercare Dementia Excellence Facilitator Tanya Liddell was named South Australian ‘Employee of the Year’ at the 2018 ACSA Awards in July and is now a finalist for the national award which will be announced on Wednesday 5 September.

Ms Liddell said the warmth and support she had received following her state award win has been ‘truly incredible’.

“If I am successful at the national awards, it will not be an individual honour, but one that will be shared with my colleagues who work tirelessly to deliver peace of mind to our residents every day,” said Tanya.

“The other finalists in this category are inspiring people who represent diverse areas within aged care – I feel we are already winners and I wish them all the best of luck.”