DUNMURRY MANOR CARE HOME (RUNWOOD HOMES)

UNISON views it as completely unacceptable for any workers to be subject to any threats or intimidation of this kind.  We condemn any persons making such threats and expect Runwood Homes to take action to protect our members in their place of work.

The recent report of the COPNI into Dunmurry Manor was shocking and appalling.  However this does not justify any threatening or intimidating behaviour.  We have contacted our members in the home today and have received responses from very distressed staff who have told us that the employer has issued rape alarms in response to recent events. 

We would urge any workers with concerns to contact the police and UNISON if they are members of the union immediately and we expect a swift response from Runwood Homes and all relevant authorities.

We believe that serious breaches of human rights of residents have occurred.  UNISON has been raising these concerns with the RQIA and all levels of the health service for some years.  We have members in a number of Runwood Homes and have already raised concerns about the quality of care and the treatment of staff.  Runwood Homes does not recognise UNISON as a trade union.  In our experience, employers who do this usually have something to hide.  We expect now that the system will finally respond to protect residents, clients and workers alike, especially those who blow the whistle.