Social Services and the Dr Giraldi Home [29 November, 2007]

Social Services and the Dr Giraldi Home

The Progressive Democratic Party has seen copies of statements prepared for an unfair dismissal case that is currently before the Industrial Tribunal. The statements raise serious issues that need to be investigated further.

The statements the Party has seen are from a number of ex-workers of the Dr Giraldi Home as well as family members of disabled users. These statements throw up a picture of discontent among families and generic maladministration, lack of resources, training or proper staffing and lack of care at the home. The PDP also notes statements of concern that have recently been made by the Gibraltar Local Disability Movement.

Irrespective of the outcome of the Tribunal case it is incumbent on Government to investigate these issues and make a statement on the results of such investigation. No doubt there are good and committed care workers at the home whose conduct should not be tarnished by the actions of those who are not. However the Government is politically accountable for the standard of care, level of resources and training offered to staff at the Home. The concerns of the families are so widespread that a full enquiry into the running of the home should be convened so that the fullest recommendations could be made to deliver fundamental changes to the service being provided. These matters cannot be ignored. Serious allegations surface from time to time and must be firmly addressed by Government. Equally there needs to be a programme of further investment in resources and training to provide a much better service to the disabled and families of the disabled. The PDP calls on Government to take firm action in this area without further delay.


http://www.vox.gi/Politics/Social_Services_Dr_Giraldi_Home-29112007.html