Government funded services – who’s responsible?

“Community organisations which contract to provide services are in an incredibly vulnerable position” says Tina Reid, Executive Director of the New Zealand Federation of Voluntary Welfare Organisations.

“They are totally dependent on a funding contract from government to fulfil their responsibilities,” she says.

“Recognition that these contract do not keep abreast of real costs has long been a concern in the sector, and now when this case has clearly identified additional responsibilities, the arrangement with the funder needs to change accordingly to meet them.

Today’s announcement that IHC has put its key services under statutory management comes as no surprise to many in the community sector.

Since the case for paying full wages for staff to “sleep over “ provide overnight care for residents was first discussed several years ago, the potential liability was a huge concern for the organisations who provide this service.

“This is clearly not about the competency and management of IHC, it is about the relationship between Government and the service which provides essential services to very vulnerable people in our communities.

“We expect there are other organisations in a similar position – and it is essential that Government get serious about facing up to this massive liability.

ENDS

© Scoop Media