1. business and industrial

Team
Member
Handbook
For Employees
and Volunteers
Your
Handbook
Thanks for being a part of our journey, and for sharing our values.
We believe that each person is unique, loved by God, and worthy
of respect, dignity and inclusion. We see this in action every day
– in the way we help our clients and, as employees, in the way we
treat each other.
Respect drives all of our values, and you can learn more about this
on page 10 of this handbook. When respect is widely shared, it has
the potential to transform lives – that of our clients, their families
and friends, and even our own – as we work together towards
life-transforming care.
2
Welcome To
BaptistCare
Welcome to BaptistCare, the trusted name in life-transforming care.
This handbook provides a guideline to working within BaptistCare.
We are an organisation that believes each person is unique, worthy
of respect, dignity and inclusion. By respecting this individuality we
create strong and caring communities that value personal wellbeing
and each other.
You have an important role to play within this organisation. Only
you can deliver on the promise we make to our clients, a promise
to provide Care you can trust. So no matter where you fit in the
organisation, never get tired of doing the little things for others,
sometimes those little things occupy the biggest part of their hearts.
I wish you every success in your new job and I trust that your
experience with BaptistCare will be both rewarding and fulfilling.
Ross Low
Chief Executive Officer
3
Contents
About
BaptistCare
Ethic of Care
Working
Conditions &
Expectations
4
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
Our Purpose, Vision & Values
What We Do
Our History
Our Volunteers
2.1 Ethical Conduct
2.2 Duty of Care
2.3 Client Focus
2.4 Team Work
2.5 Continuous Improvement
2.6Confidentiality
2.7 Communication Channels
2.8 Policies & Procedures
10
12
13
15
19
19
20
21
21
21
22
22
3.1 Getting Started
26
3.1.1Orientation
26
3.1.2Probation
26
3.2Entitlements
27
3.2.1 Wages & Salaries (Employees Only)27
3.2.2Superannuation (Employees Only)27
3.2.3Leave (Employees Only)27
3.2.4Reimbursement
28
3.3 Benefits & Rewards
29
3.3.1 Salary Packaging (Employees Only)29
3.3.2 Salary Sacrificing (Employees Only)29
3.3.3Negotiated Extra Leave (NEL) 30
(Employees Only)
3.3.4 Inspire Awards
30
3.3.5 Employee Referral
30
3.4 Hours of Work
31
3.4.1 Attendance & Timekeeping
31
3.4.2 Additional Hours (Employees Only)31
3.4.3 Leaving the Workplace Early
31
3.5 Performance & Development
32
3.5.1 Performance Reviews
32
3.5.2 Learning & Development
32
3.5.3 Opportunities for 33
Advancement & Growth
3.5.4 Performance Improvement
33
3.5.5Resignations
33
3.5.6 Exit Interviews
34
3.5.7References
34
3.5.8 Personnel Records
34
3.6 Registration & Presentation
35
3.6.1 Registration, Licence 35
& Certification Maintenance
3.6.2 Dress, Presentation & Uniform 35
3.7Equipment
35
3.7.1 Use of Equipment
35
3.7.2 Care & Maintenance of 36
BaptistCare Equipment & Vehicles
3.7.3 Telephone Usage
36
3.7.4 Returning BaptistCare Property 36
3.8 Potential Conflicts of Interests
37
3.8.1 Conflict of Interest
37
3.8.2 Accepting Gifts or Benefits
37
3.8.3Additional Employment
(Employees Only)37
5
A Safe &
Positive Work
Environment
6
4.1
Health & Safety
4.1.1 Work Health Safety
4.1.2 Accident & Injury Reporting
4.1.3Workers Compensation (Employees Only)
4.2 Keeping a Safe Environment
4.2.1 Building Safety & Security
4.2.2 Housekeeping & Cleanliness
4.2.3 Fire Procedures
4.2.4 Manual Handling
4.2.5 Infection Control & Immunisation
4.2.6Smoking
4.2.7 Drugs & Alcohol in the Workplace
4.3 A Positive Work Environment
4.3.1 Equal Employment Opportunity & Affirmative Action
4.3.2 Harassment & Bullying
4.3.3Grievances
4.3.4 Whistleblower Hotline
4.4Wellbeing
4.4.1Personal Wellbeing
4.4.2 Employee Assistance Program
4.4.3 Manager Assist
40
40
40
40
41
41
41
41
42
43
43
43
44
44
44
44
45
46
46
46
47
7
8
About
BaptistCare
1.1 Our Purpose, Vision & Values
Our Purpose
Transforming lives by expressing
the love of Christ.
Our Vision
The trusted name in life-transforming care.
Our Values
Each person is unique, loved by God, and
worthy of respect, dignity and inclusion.
By respecting this individuality, we create
strong and caring communities that value
personal wellbeing - and each other.
When this respect is shared, it has the
potential to transform lives. We value
his respect in our clients, colleagues
and our wider network and this is
what we practice every day.
10
R
E
S
P
E
C
T
RESPONSIVE
RESPONSIVE
We respond positively and
We
respond
thoughtfully
to positively
each other’sand thoughtfully
each other’s
to
individual
needs. individual needs.
EMPOWERING
EMPOWERING
We value the freedom that
We
value
freedom that comes
comes
from the
an improved
from
improved quality of life.
qualityan
of life.
SUPPORTING
SUPPORTING
We believe safety and security We
believe
safety -and
is a joint
responsibility
andsecurity is a joint
responsibility
ashared priority.- and a shared priority.
PERSONAL SOLUTIONS
PERSONAL
SOLUTIONS
We understand that no one
We
understand
that no one size fits all
size fits
all and we embrace
we embrace this individuality.
and
t his individuality.
ENRICHING
ENRICHING
We ensure everyone’s personal and
We
ensure
everyone’s
personal and shared en
shared
environments
are comfortable,
nurturing
and positive
places to and
be. positive places
are
comfortable,
nurturing
COMMUNICATING
COMMUNICATING
We create open communication
We
create
open
communication
channels to b
channels
to build
strong
and mutuallyand
respectful
relationships.
strong
mutually
respectful relationships.
TOGETHERNESS
TOGETHERNESS
Through team work we actively support
Through
team
work
each other’s
shared
goalswe
andactively
respect support each
each other’s
individual
journey.each other’s individu
shared
goals
and respect
11
1.2 What We Do
BaptistCare is a leading care provider
operating a number of services for
individuals, families and the community
across NSW and the ACT including:
• Care accommodation for the elderly,
frail and people living with dementia
• Safe and welcoming places for homeless persons
and people living on the margins
• Services helping thousands of people to live full and independent
lives in their own homes
• Crisis accommodation and support services for women and children
escaping domestic violence
• Counselling services for families, individuals and couples
• Various community support programs in high need areas across
NSW and the ACT
• No interest loans supporting low-income earners
• Access to much-needed food services, such as low-cost groceries
and crisis food packs for vulnerable and disadvantaged people
BaptistCare is a not-for-profit company Limited by Guarantee.
Members of the company elect a board of twelve Directors who
are volunteers and serve in a non-executive capacity.
The Chief Executive Officer and The Executive Committee
manage the organisation.
For more details on BaptistCare activities, please refer to the BaptistCare
website www.baptistcare.org.au which contains information on all
BaptistCare programs or visit the BaptistCare intranet.
12
1.3 Our History
BaptistCare grew from the NSW Baptist
Forward Movement of 1937-1950, which
was a Committee established by the NSW
Baptist Union to implement a community care
program, deepen spiritual life and eliminate
denominational debts (left after the Great Depression).
The ‘forward plan’, originally proposed by Canberra
Baptist Church Minister Rev Dr A J Waldock, was later revised
to focus on establishing Christ centred services including a home for
elderly ladies and a home for orphaned children.
The NSW Forward Movement
The committee determined that the new service organisation should
be a separate identity to the Baptist Union of NSW, but that it still
function as an agency of the Union. The new organisation, called
the NSW Baptist Homes Trust, was subsequently incorporated on 5
October 1944 as a not-for-profit Association limited by guarantee
under the Companies Act 1936.
Its first home Yallambi was opened in 1953. The history and growth
of BaptistCare is recorded in the book ‘Striving for Excellence’
co-authored by Rev Gerry Ball and Jim Mallice (BaptistCare Honorary
Historian and Honorary Life Member). Copies of this book are available
from BaptistCare Marketing & Communications.
In 1992 the name was changed to Baptist Community Services
- NSW & ACT and in 2014 the organisation became BaptistCare.
The organisation continues to operate as an affiliate of the Baptist
Association of Churches NSW & ACT, and the Chief Executive Officer
of BaptistCare is an executive member of the Association.
BaptistCare now employs over 4,000 employees and engages the services
of approximately 1000 volunteers in a variety of support activities.
13
14
1.4 Our Volunteers
Volunteers have been the foundation of
BaptistCare since it began in 1944. As our
committed volunteers continue to support
and extend the work of paid staff, the rich
legacy continues.
The time so generously shared by our
volunteer community means that
our clients and residents receive
life-changing benefits. They enjoy
increased independence, new
friendships, and ongoing contact
with people who care.
15
“I have been coming here for years and I have
always enjoyed it. Everyone has been very good
to me. When I decided to come in permanently
the staff and residents were wonderful!”
BaptistCare Resident
16
Ethic
Of Care
17
18
2.1 Ethical Conduct
As an employee or volunteer, you are expected to conduct yourself
in a manner that reflects and promotes the standards outlined in our
promise, vision and values statements in keeping with the BaptistCare
Christian ethos and BaptistCare’s RESPECT values.
You are also expected to respect and work within the letter and spirit
of the legal requirements of the Commonwealth of Australia and as
appropriate, the State of New South Wales and/or the Australian
Capital Territory.
2.2 Duty of Care
As outlined in Part 4 of this Handbook, BaptistCare is committed
to fulfilling its duty of care by ensuring the health and safety of all
employees, volunteers, clients and visitors to BaptistCare. As employees
and volunteers you also have a duty of care to BaptistCare clients,
visitors and each other, working within the boundaries of your position
description and adhering to all BaptistCare policies and procedures.
This means you must act in the best interest of others, doing only
what you have been trained for or received instruction on to meet
the requirements of the job for which you have been engaged to do.
Likewise, you must not attempt to do anything which a reasonable
person with similar experience and qualifications would avoid doing
in similar circumstances.
At BaptistCare, as part of your duty of care, we expect you to report
to your manager all forms of observed or suspected abuse
of clients. It is mandatory that an alleged assault is
reported by law. Team members who report
any alleged abuse will not be harassed or
victimised for making the report.
19
2.3 Client Focus
The continued success of BaptistCare depends upon quality of care
and service provided for our clients. For this reason, it is essential that
you understand the necessity of maintaining good relationships. As a
team member, BaptistCare is your place of work. However, it is also
home to many of our clients and it is essential to conduct yourself
as if you are a guest in another’s home.
As a team member with BaptistCare, you are required to respond
to any issues raised by clients or their families and ensure that these
issues are dealt with appropriately. Your manager can give you advice
in this regard. ‘Have your Say’ brochures help to facilitate the feedback
and response process.
BaptistCare considers client service and satisfaction to be a
responsibility of all team members.
The existence of good client relations helps build respectful care and
services, prevents misunderstandings, builds morale, improves your
performance and makes your daily jobs easier and more pleasant.
At BaptistCare, client well being is achieved through RESPECT. We
believe each person is unique, loved by God, and worthy of respect,
dignity and inclusion. When this respect is shared it
has the potential to transform lives.
We value this respect in our clients,
colleagues and our wider
network and this is what
we practice every day.
20
2.4 Team Work
Our focus should always be the
client and the quality of care and
service we provide. To achieve
this it is essential that BaptistCare
employees and volunteers work
together as a team.
Every individual in BaptistCare is part of a
team and has a significant role to play. Although
each role has different responsibilities and skills,
all roles are important to the success of BaptistCare.
2.5 Continuous Improvement
To encourage Continuous Improvement, BaptistCare has set up
systems to gather feedback, share best practice and monitor changes
made to improve what we do. These systems enable BaptistCare to be
sustainable and improve outcomes for our clients and team members.
You have a key role in providing and passing on this valuable feedback.
2.6 Confidentiality
All information about clients and team members is confidential and
is subject to the Privacy Act requirements. Discussion of matters
concerning team members and clients should be confined to the
matter at hand. These matters should only be discussed with
professionals and other nominated persons who are involved with any
treatment, care, assessment or support of the client or as required by
legislation. These discussions should be held in places where privacy
will not be compromised.
21
2.7 Communication Channels
BaptistCare seeks to communicate effectively to all
team members through:
• Newsletters
• Noticeboards
• Staff meetings and forums
• The BaptistCare intranet
• The BaptistCare website
www.baptistcare.org.au
• The BaptistCare Facebook page
• Emails
You are responsible for checking all
forms of communication available to you
regularly. All notices are to be approved
prior to placement on notice boards.
2.8 Policies &
Procedures
To ensure our team members are
able to provide the best care to our
clients, BaptistCare has policies and
procedures in place. These policies and
procedures provide standard practice
guidelines for all services and programs,
ensure legal and funding requirements
are met and ensure best practice.
Policies and procedures covering client care
and work conditions are available in your
workplace and on the BaptistCare intranet.
22
23
“I love being here.
I am well looked after.”
BaptistCare Resident
24
Working
Conditions &
Expectations
25
3.1 Getting Started
3.1.1 Orientation
BaptistCare is committed to ensuring all new employees, managers and
volunteers are provided with an effective orientation to BaptistCare,
your workplace and your role. Participation in the relevant orientation
workshops and workplace activities is compulsory. Orientation is also
essential for you to recognise what BaptistCare expects of you and
to ensure that you have the necessary information and resources to
perform your role safely and effectively.
Your manager is accountable for ensuring that your orientation is
signed off at each stage. He or she may, however, delegate responsibility
to others who are competent to help you complete activities required
for your orientation. You also have a responsibility to ensure that your
learning and development needs are met during orientation.
3.1.2 Probation
All permanent employees have a 6 month probation period from the
start date of appointment until the end of six months. During this
period, expectations and performance standards for your role are
discussed and agreed. Your performance is then reviewed against
these agreed standards to ensure you are suited for the role.
26
3.2 Entitlements
3.2.1 Wages & Salaries (Employees Only)
Remuneration is made up of salary or wage payments but may also
include other benefits such as superannuation, allowances, leave loading,
penalty payments, salary packaging and provision of a motor vehicle.
Your manager will inform you of the method and time of payment
of wages and salaries and how to complete timesheets or ‘clock in’
using Kronos.
If you have any questions about remuneration, please ask your manager.
3.2.2 Superannuation (Employees Only)
Superannuation will be paid for you in accordance with the
Superannuation Guarantee Act. You must complete an application
for membership of a superannuation fund of your choice or supply
details of your existing membership. Further information concerning
superannuation funds can be obtained from your manager.
3.2.3 Leave (Employees Only)
BaptistCare complies with all leave provisions set out in the
appropriate legislation, industrial awards and agreements.
The following types of leave are available to you:
• Annual Leave
• Long Service Leave
• Parental Leave
• Personal Leave (Sick & Carer’s Leave)
• Study & Exam Leave
• Bereavement & Emergency Leave
• Blood Donor Leave
• Jury Service Leave
• Family Leave
27
Additional leave, including leave without pay, may be available to you
on request to your manager.
To ensure that you are treated equally and fairly, BaptistCare expects
a high level of communication and consultation between you and
your manager concerning periods of leave. Adequate notification
and negotiation with your manager is essential prior to any period
of planned leave.
Abuse of leave provisions causes burdens for your team, unnecessary
disruption of your workplace and could lead to disciplinary action.
All leave must be applied for on the appropriate form and approved
by your manager, prior to the commencement of the leave. You may
be required to supply a medical certificate to your manager if repeated
unexplained leave is taken.
If you are absent from work without notifying your manager this
may not be considered to be leave and can be dealt with through
the performance improvement process.
3.2.4 Reimbursement
Employees and volunteers will be
reimbursed for all reasonable work
related expenses. Authorisation
to incur the expense should
be sought from your
manager beforehand.
28
3.3 Benefits & Rewards
3.3.1 Salary Packaging (Employees Only)
BaptistCare, as a not-for-profit organisation, is able to offer a variety
of ways in which remuneration packaging can be offered to permanent
employees. This is a legal process where an employee can restructure
their existing salary so that their fortnightly pay is split between cash
and benefits. This provides a higher net remuneration (increased
disposable income) for the employee to spend.
In deciding whether to participate in remuneration packaging,
the benefits need to be carefully considered in relation to individual
financial and personal circumstances. It is strongly recommended that
employees seek independent financial advice prior to commencing
remuneration packaging.
3.3.2 Salary Sacrificing (Employees Only)
Employees who have a benefit vehicle or tool of trade vehicle have the
flexibility, upon approval from management, to salary sacrifice to a
bigger or smaller vehicle by paying the applicable pre-tax and
post-tax contributions, thereby allowing them to have a
vehicle that suits their personal circumstances.
BaptistCare vehicles are also able to be salary
sacrificed by those permanent employees whose
position does not currently attract a vehicle.
The employee pays the applicable pre-tax and
post-tax deductions from their remuneration
package, based on the category of vehicle
they select from the BaptistCare range.
Eligibility is dependent upon the employee
travelling a minimum specified kilometres
per annum, and subject to a suitability
review of their salary package with a
Human Resources Consultant.
29
3.3.3 Negotiated Extra Leave (NEL) (Employees Only)
BaptistCare recognises that flexible annual leave arrangements can
benefit the family life of employees. As such employees can negotiate
the ‘purchase’ of up to two additional weeks of annual leave per annum
by a reduction in base salary.
NEL is accessible only for the 12 month period following the date the
agreement was made and cannot be accrued from year to year. Any
NEL that is not taken will be paid back to the employee.
3.3.4 Inspire Awards
The BaptistCare Inspire Awards Program enables all people in
BaptistCare to recognise inspiring employees and volunteers who
demonstrate above expected performance and/or above expected
commitment and dedication to BaptistCare.
There are four award levels:
• Level 1 – Inspire Appreciation
• Level 2 – Inspire Achievement
• Level 3 – Inspire Outstanding Service
• Level 4 – Inspire Excellence
Levels 1 and 2 are open for all BaptistCare employees, including
casuals and volunteers while Levels 3 and 4 are open to full-time
and part-time employees.
3.3.5 Employee Referral (Employees Only)
BaptistCare acknowledges that at times a good way to recruit
employees is through existing employees and in doing so encourages
employees to talk to friends, family and their networks about working
at BaptistCare.
BaptistCare offers employees a financial reward for referring successful
applicants to vacant permanent roles. To receive this reward an
employee and the recruiting program/centre manager are to complete
the Recruitment Referral Form and forward to Payroll for processing.
30
3.4 Hours of Work
3.4.1 Attendance & Timekeeping
Your hours of work will be discussed and agreed with you. BaptistCare
expects that you will adhere to your agreed hours of work in keeping
with the conditions of your employment. You are required to record
your attendance in the specified manner.
Where you are unable to attend work during your agreed hours you
are required to give your manager reasonable notice. Failure to notify
your manager may result in you being unpaid for the period of absence
and may be dealt with through the performance improvement process.
BaptistCare is committed to maintaining your roster. However, from
time to time as operational requirements change, there may be a
need to review your rostered shifts. This will be done in consultation
with you.
3.4.2 Additional Hours (Employees Only)
BaptistCare recognises that from time to time you may work
additional hours. Where it is considered appropriate you may
be able to negotiate:
• time in lieu or
• payment for the time worked.
3.4.3 Leaving the Workplace Early
You are to notify your manager prior to leaving the workplace, where
this is necessary, due to sickness or other urgent private business.
31
3.5 Performance & Development
3.5.1 Performance Reviews
To assist you in your role and ensure that you perform adequately,
your performance will be formally reviewed against agreed standards.
This is important so that we can recognise good performance and
provide two way communication and feedback. It is also used to
develop your skills in your current and future roles.
3.5.2 Learning & Development
BaptistCare supports your professional development through
encouraging participation in approved education, training programs,
meetings and seminars which achieve BaptistCare’s business direction
and enable you to successfully perform in your role.
As a condition of your employment you are expected to attend all
training initiatives for which you are scheduled. Volunteers are also
invited to engage in professional development which is appropriate
to the role they undertake within BaptistCare.
BaptistCare provides the following:
• Access to vocational accredited and non-accredited education
and training
• Study assistance for approved tertiary education
• Corporate-wide management and leadership development
• Facility based training through educators in Residential and
Home Services
• Clinical education
• Opportunities for Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
• Training resources and advice
These learning and development opportunities can be accessed
through the BaptistCare intranet, the training calendar and the
Aged Care Channel.
32
3.5.3 Opportunities for Advancement & Growth
BaptistCare is committed to assisting you to develop in both your
role and career. You are encouraged wherever possible to take up
opportunities provided for training, education and other development
initiatives. Job vacancies and opportunities for promotion,
advancement and transfer are posted internally and are also
available as an option for you to further develop your career.
It is your responsibility to take advantage of the opportunities
made available to you.
3.5.4 Performance Improvement
You are required to follow the policies and procedures of BaptistCare
in an efficient, effective and safe manner and follow any reasonable
directives given by your manager. BaptistCare recognises that
unsatisfactory performance or behaviour that is not within the
values or policies and procedures of BaptistCare may result in formal
disciplinary processes being undertaken. The key objective of any
disciplinary process is performance improvement.
As a volunteer, you are bound by these same conditions and
your continuation of service is dependent on adhering to your
volunteering agreement.
3.5.5 Resignations
As an employee, if you wish to terminate your employment you
must give written notice to your manager, preferably with the
reason for termination.
The relevant award, agreement or letter of offer provides details
of the minimum period of notice to be given on termination of
employment. Advance warning allows us time to prepare your
final payment, adjust working schedules and
secure a replacement.
As a volunteer, you are asked to give at least
one week’s notice if you wish to conclude
your service.
33
3.5.6 Exit Interviews
An exit interview may be conducted for anyone who leaves BaptistCare.
We will invite you to give your honest opinion on BaptistCare policies
and practice. These comments provide important feedback
to BaptistCare and assist us to continually improve our services.
3.5.7 References
BaptistCare does not, as a matter of course, provide written
employment or voluntary service references. However, a Statement
of Service will be issued upon request.
3.5.8 Personnel Records
BaptistCare maintains a personnel file for each employee and volunteer.
The file contains the individual’s employment application, letter of
offer, performance reviews, any formal disciplinary documentation
and applications for leave. Each volunteer’s personnel file includes
background checks, feedback forms and the volunteer agreement.
You are to notify your manager whenever there is a change of
address, name, telephone number, next of kin, tax status or any
other information affecting the obligations of BaptistCare.
The contents of your files are strictly confidential and access is
restricted. You are entitled to view any information held by BaptistCare
in relation to your employment or voluntary service. Where medical
information is part of your file, it can only be made available to you
through a nominated medical practitioner.
34
3.6 Registration & Presentation
3.6.1 Registration, Licence
& Certification Maintenance
BaptistCare requires that where it is a condition of employment to
hold a current licence, registration or certificate, you are to ensure
that they are maintained as current and meet any of the associated
costs. You will be required to provide to your manager copies of any
relevant licence, registration or qualification upon commencement
with BaptistCare or upon renewal.
You must notify your manager in writing if your licence, registration
or certification has lapsed or has been revoked for any reason.
3.6.2 Dress, Presentation & Uniform
It is the policy of BaptistCare that your dress reflects the professional
nature and values of the organisation. You will be notified if you
are required to wear a BaptistCare uniform and provided with the
appropriate information regarding its purchase. Uniforms must be
worn correctly, including appropriate footwear.
Where identification badges are issued you are required to wear
them whilst on duty.
3.7 Equipment
3.7.1 Use of Equipment
BaptistCare will as far as possible ensure that you have equipment that
enables you to effectively and safely do your work and provide training
to support this.
You are expected to use the equipment provided wherever appropriate
and seek assistance if you are having difficulties.
35
3.7.2 Care & Maintenance of BaptistCare
Equipment & Vehicles
Your cooperation in the care and the use of BaptistCare equipment is
necessary to maintain it in good operating condition. You should use
equipment only for which you have received training for the purpose
intended and as instructed by your manager. You must not attempt
to use any equipment or machinery with which you are not familiar
without first getting instructions.
Use of some equipment requires training and assessment.
If any equipment is faulty or not in safe working order follow
procedures for maintenance, hazard reporting or repairs.
You must report any accident or incident whilst using BaptistCare
equipment or vehicles immediately to your manager and fill out an
incident/accident report.
Company vehicles are not to be driven unless you have a valid driver’s
licence. Additionally, you are expected to practice safe and courteous
driving habits.
Smoking is not permitted in BaptistCare vehicles.
3.7.3 Telephone Usage
Personal phone calls should not be made except where they relate
to work or in the case of an emergency.
Incoming calls should be limited to important matters in work hours,
for example, illness, childcare problems and other similar critical issues.
3.7.4 Returning BaptistCare Property
All BaptistCare property and equipment is to be returned promptly
and in good working order upon termination of employment or
voluntary services.
This includes keys, manuals, uniforms and Westpac packaging card.
Your final payment cannot be issued until these items are accounted for.
36
3.8 Potential Conflicts of Interest
3.8.1 Conflict of Interest
Difficulties often arise where parties in a close personal or
family relationship are employed in the same workplace.
You must not be involved in any selection process for
the employment of relatives or close friends or where
there is any likelihood of a conflict of interest. You
may not be employed in a position where you are
directly managed by a relative or a close friend.
3.8.2 Accepting Gifts or Benefits
You are not to solicit or accept significant
gifts or benefits from clients, suppliers or
tenderers or from any person or persons
with whom you have involvement as a
result of your service with BaptistCare.
It is not permitted for any BaptistCare
employee, volunteer or contractor to
borrow money from clients, regardless
of the amount. BaptistCare serves a
vulnerable client base and borrowing
money from clients, regardless of the
willingness, lucidness and financial capacity,
is unacceptable.
3.8.3 Additional Employment
(Employees Only)
Where you are undertaking, or likely to undertake,
additional paid employment you must notify your
manager in writing as to the nature and extent of the
employment. This allows for appropriate discussion of issues
such as occupational health and safety and conflict
of interest. If you are a senior employee within BaptistCare
you must seek approval from the Chief Executive Officer.
37
“We’ve created a little
community here; everyone
looking out for each other
and being part of something
that really feels like family.”
Belinda
Village Manager
38
A Safe &
Positive Work
Environment
39
4.1 Health & Safety
4.1.1 Work Health Safety
BaptistCare is committed to ensuring the health and safety of all
workers and contractors, clients and visitors to the organisation.
Adequate resources will be made available to ensure a safe workplace
and that BaptistCare complies with all health and safety legislation.
Many centres and programs have health and safety committees
consisting of management and workers. These committees have
been established to ensure consultation on eliminating hazards
and providing a safer working environment through the development
and implementation of safer work practices and procedures.
All workers play a very significant role in the safety program, both
in complying with all necessary safety requirements, particularly
concerning protective equipment, and exercising the utmost care
in carrying out responsibilities and duties.
4.1.2 Accident & Injury Reporting
It is your responsibility to report any accident or incident to your
manager immediately. This includes ‘near misses’.
Additionally, you are responsible for notifying your manager of
any incident or hazard using the appropriate BaptistCare form.
4.1.3 Workers Compensation (Employees Only)
If you have a work related injury, you are entitled to make a claim.
Report any workplace injuries immediately to your manager.
40
4.2 Keeping a Safe Environment
4.2.1 Building Safety & Security
You are responsible for the security of your workplace. Each
BaptistCare facility has an individualised security program. You will be
informed of this during your orientation. Be alert for anyone behaving
in an unusual manner and report your suspicions to your manager.
4.2.2 Housekeeping & Cleanliness
Housekeeping and cleanliness are important to BaptistCare for health
and safety reasons as well as providing a pleasant working environment
to team members and living environment for clients.
A pleasant and comfortable environment reflects well on
prospective visitors, clients, relatives and representatives
of other business concerns.
4.2.3 Fire Procedures
Fires in workplaces do happen and caution must be used to guard
against them. Good fire prevention habits go a long way toward
preventing fires. Safety for workers and clients is everybody’s
responsibility.
In the event of a fire, the fire procedures specific to your workplace
are to be followed. Your manager will inform you of the location of
the evacuation plan for your specific site.
Team members are required to attend fire drills and evacuation
training procedures when requested in accordance with the award and
relevant legislation. The fire officer or manager will advise you of all
educational opportunities regarding fire safety.
It is the responsibility of all team members to memorise the location
of the fire extinguishers, hose reels and other fire fighting equipment
in their workplace.
Workers are familiarised with fire equipment in their orientation.
41
Please note the following points:
• Keep fire extinguishers and fire doors clear of all obstructions
• Memorise the location of exits
• Report any hazards or obstructions located near fire exits
• Do not jam fire doors open or interfere with them
• Use fire exits to reach the assembly point if a fire occurs
• In the event of a fire, the fire officer or the most senior person at
the centre will take control until the arrival of the Fire Brigade.
4.2.4 Manual Handling
BaptistCare is committed to ensuring the safety of all workers
while doing hazardous manual task (HMT) by using a risk
management approach. As part of this
approach you are expected to report any
hazardous tasks always be vigilant for risks,
adhere to manual handling guidelines,
training and model an “actively
caring” workplace.
42
4.2.5 Infection Control & Immunisation
The Infection Control Manual incorporates policies that are applicable
to all residential and home care BaptistCare Centres.
BaptistCare encourages you to be immunised against infectious
diseases. Hepatitis and flu vaccines are made available for all employees
and volunteers who have direct client contact (in keeping with NSW
Health Occupational Assessment, Screening & Vaccination against
Infectious Diseases PD2007_006). Please check with your manager
to arrange required immunisation.
If you wish to refuse the vaccine it is necessary that you sign a written
statement recording your refusal.
You must follow the ‘standard precautions’ in relation to infection
control. Your manager will inform you of all safety equipment and
protective apparel necessary in performing your role. If you are unsure
about these ‘standard precautions’ please see your manager.
4.2.6 Smoking
You are not permitted to smoke within any building or motor vehicle
belonging to BaptistCare. Smoking should not take place near
windows, doors or air vents into any building where others may be
subjected to the effects of passive smoking. You are not permitted
to smoke inside a client’s home.
Some residential aged care centres are smoke free zones and provision
is made for team members to smoke off-site. Check with your manager
if there is a designated area for smoking.
Smoking should occur within breaks and smokers should take measures
to avoid offending others or subjecting them to passive smoking.
4.2.7 Drugs & Alcohol in the Workplace
BaptistCare policy states that alcohol and drugs are not to be brought
to, or consumed on any premises or workplace of BaptistCare. No team
member may attend work under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
If you are taking prescription medication and believe it may affect your
work performance you must discuss this with your manager.
43
4.3 A Positive Work Environment
4.3.1 Equal Employment Opportunity
& Affirmative Action
BaptistCare is committed to a workplace that provides equal employment
opportunity where all employees and potential employees have equal
and open access to employment opportunities without discrimination.
Volunteers are also selected on a non-discriminatory basis.
BaptistCare believes that it is the responsibility of everyone to ensure
that workplaces are free from discrimination and that all team members
are treated equally. Accordingly, you have a responsibility to ensure
that your own behaviour and attitudes are free from discrimination,
and managers have additional responsibilities to ensure the workplace
is free from discrimination.
BaptistCare is committed to the development of affirmative action
programs appropriate to our staff profile.
4.3.2 Harassment & Bullying
BaptistCare believes that a working environment must be free of
any type of harassment and bullying.
Managers are responsible and accountable for ensuring that proper
standards of behaviour are maintained in the workplace. Harassment
and bullying will not be tolerated.
4.3.3 Grievances
BaptistCare promotes a safe working environment with open
communication which enables effective resolution of issues and concerns.
BaptistCare encourages you to resolve issues and concerns informally.
Where this is not possible, a formal grievance procedure is set down to
assist in this process.
44
All grievances are taken seriously
and are dealt with according to the
BaptistCare grievance policy and procedure.
Flow charts outlining this process are located
at all BaptistCare centres.
4.3.4 Whistleblower Hotline
Misconduct or unethical behaviour is damaging and can have
far reaching implications to our people, business operations and
reputation. BaptistCare has a zero tolerance for misconduct and
unethical behaviour which can come in the form of:
• Theft
• Defrauding the business or our clients
• Actions that place people at risk of harm
• Violent behaviours
• Intoxication and substance abuse
• Bullying or discrimination.
If you have seen any of these or other unethical behaviours, do the
right thing and speak up. You can speak in confidence with your
manager, Human Resources (HR) Department or alternatively
you can call our independent Whistleblower Hotline. The Whistle
Blower hotline is a free independent hotline run by
PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC).
This hotline has been established to enable the confidential reporting
of unethical and sensitive issues at any time (24 hours a day,
7 days a week).
Ph: 1800 254 055
Email: [email protected]
45
4.4 Wellbeing
4.4.1 Personal Wellbeing
BaptistCare has a genuine concern for the welfare needs of our
employees and volunteers. Any personal or other matter of concern
may be discussed on a confidential basis with your manager. He or
she may refer you to an appropriate person for further assistance.
BaptistCare chaplains are available for team members, if required.
Events in your workplace that cause you to experience unusually
strong emotional reactions are called ‘critical incidents’ and should
be reported to your manager so that debriefing, counselling or other
support may be organised, if appropriate.
4.4.2 Employee Assistance Program
The Employee Assistance Program is a phone counselling service
for BaptistCare employees and their families.
The Employee Assistance Program:
• Is confidential, voluntary, immediate and free of charge
• Can be accessed during normal business hours
• Is staffed by trained counsellors
• Is confidential. Only the counsellor and yourself
are aware of what is discussed
If you are having difficulty
coping with the demands of your
personal and/or working life,
call 1300 687 327.
46
4.4.3 Manager Assist
As part of the Employee Assistance Program an additional service is
available for BaptistCare Managers. Manager Assist is a coaching and
advisory line designed specifically for supervisors and managers. Its
aim is to help you lead, manage and support your team to maximise
performance and achievement. Manager Assist can provide practical
advice when dealing with workplace issues such as change
management, performance and development issues or how
to raise a sensitive issue with your team.
The number is 1300 687 327.
About this Handbook
This handbook is only a guide to BaptistCare policies and procedures,
benefits and general information that will assist you during your
employment or voluntary service with BaptistCare. BaptistCare
reserves the right to make changes in the content or the application of
its policies and procedures as it deems appropriate and these changes
may be implemented even if they have not been communicated,
reprinted or substituted in this handbook.
For details of BaptistCare policies and procedures, please consult the
BaptistCare intranet, relevant policy manual or ask your manager.
© BaptistCare 2014
This handbook is copyright. Except as permitted under the
Copyright Act 1968 (Cth), no part of this publication
may be reproduced by any process, electronic
or otherwise, without the specific written
permission of the copyright owner.
Neither may information be stored
electronically in any form whatsoever
without such permission.
47
Discover the
BaptistCare difference today
1300 275 227
baptistcare.org.au
[email protected]
W00158