Healthcare Workers Aren’t Getting Paid Enough w/ Melissa Woolley from the PSA and CSW Monique Behan-Kitto: 8 November, 2023

Care and support workers are currently in the midst of a pay equity agreement, with all three major unions undertaking work to make sure workers are paid equitably. 

The workers, predominantly women, last received a pay rise in 2017, and their wages have simply not matched the cost of living. In some cases workers, who often use their own cars to drive to clients, have to stay beyond their paid hours just to make sure the people they are caring for receive the appropriate care. 

Te Whatu Ora has delayed the pay equity settlement, despite not being directly involved in the relationship between employees and employers. This has got some union members and representatives riled up. 

Following international Care And Support day, Arno spoke to the Public Service Association assistant secretary Melissa Woolley. Arno started our interview by asking what the PSA is and what it does. 

Next, Arno spoke to a Care And Support worker named Monique Behan-Kitto. They have unique insight into the struggles faced by workers and the struggle for pay equity. Arno started our interview by asking about Monique’s role as a care and support worker.