Meetings With Managers: A Cause For Concern For Nurses?

How Nurse Union NPAQ Makes A Difference

In the ever-changing industrial landscape of healthcare employment, nurses can find their working lives jeopardised when an employer proposes, major or minor, workplace change. Members in the healthcare profession come to us regarding such changes, at times leading to some pretty serious challenges. We recently had one such case regarding a Nurses Professional Association of Queensland (NPAQ) member, which highlights the crucial role we play in supporting our members, beginning, middle & end. 

A Challenge Faced. An Outcome Achieved

Our member, a dedicated Clinical Nurse, found themselves caught in a whirlwind of confusion. Their disappointment after five years of serving her community was felt when work zones were proposed to be changed.  Shocking in the least, the situation was further complicated by a total lack of clear communication.

Our member's case is not unique. In a profession where every decision impacts lives, clarity and consistency become paramount. But what happens when things go awry? That's where NPAQ steps in.

The NPAQ service

Upon receiving our member's concern, at short notice one of our experienced case managers at Red Union Support Hub offered to attend and provide support. Before the meeting, discussions occurred between them to analyse & formulate how to proceed during the workplace meeting. As well, the meeting was the desired forum to get what our member wanted. The goal was not merely to resolve the problem at some unknown and distant time in the future but to ensure that our member's rights were protected as quickly as possible, amicably & professionally. Feedback from our nurse member was very positive on this point. Speedy resolutions and life getting back to normal is very important. 

In summary, the assistance included: 

1. Preparation: A mutual understanding of the situation was essential between the parties. Our member worked closely with our member to gather all relevant information, including email trails and verbal assurances. 
2. Negotiation and Mediation: Engaging with the management and other involved parties, the Case Manager facilitated discussions to clarify misunderstandings and negotiate a fair outcome. Our member believed that our presence made the managers more amicable and patient in these discussions, evidencing the positive impact of professional support.
3. Personalized Support Person Services: Recognizing our member's unique circumstances, including her second job and family responsibilities, the Case Manager participated in the workplace meeting to ensure our member’s version of events was presently in a concise manner & given equitable consideration.
4. Closing the loop: right to the end, our case manager maintained open communication with our member, keeping her informed and involved.

A Win for Our Member, A Win for All 

Our member was delighted by the efficacy of the Case Manager’s professional support. Not only was her area of responsibility reinstated, but additional considerations were also made to accommodate her circumstance. Pleased with & grateful for the outcome, the member knew how our support will help in the future, should it be needed.

But the story for you doesn't end with that member. This case is a reflection, on the one hand, of the broader challenges faced by nurses across Australia, but the relief they find with us, on the other. Our members work so hard to care for their patients that they often do not have the time to know how to care for their own workplace rights. It's a reminder that in a profession where the stakes are high, support, clarity, and advocacy are equally vital for our members. 

The NPAQ Difference 

Just having a support person - one of our dedicated Case Managers - can make all the difference for you. We recognize that every meeting is unique, filled with challenges & curve balls. Our commitment entails briefing and debriefing every member so they go into the meeting feeling empowered and, afterwards, go over what just happened and, if anything, the next action/s needing to occur. So we avail ourselves leading up to, during and after the meeting. In this case, our member really felt her voice was heard!

We equip our members with the knowledge, tools, and resources they need to navigate the industrial legal complexities of their profession, for example how best to attend & conduct oneself in a formal workplace meeting. Key principles are explained in preparation for the meeting, for example, the right to not self-incriminate or the mode of engagement occurring (conversational vs inquisitorial). We stand up for our members, ensuring that their voices are heard, they learn what their rights are & that their rights are protected. 

Being present to support our members makes the difference because of the breadth of expertise we can draw upon to emphatically stress the rights of the member whilst the employer does the same.

Our member's story is a testament to the difference that NPAQ makes in the lives of nurses across Australia. It's a story of resilience, support, and success. It's a story that reflects our mission and our commitment. 

At NPAQ, we are more than an association; we are a community, a support system, and a voice for nurses. We are here for you, just as we were there for our members. 

Join us, and let's make a difference together: npaq.redunion.com.au/join

How is the NPAQ so effective in defending members during workplace issues and disputes? Our experienced and professional case managers use our unique RED™ case resolution system.

Why is the NPAQ different? We believe that real change in healthcare STARTS with empowering frontline nurses, not bureaucrats. 

If you are a member of NPAQ and need assistance with bullying or a return to work please submit a Member Support Form on your dashboard, or contact us at 1300 263 374 - hotline@npaq.com.au

To find out more about NPAV and become protected today visit: npaq.redunion.com.au/signup