Dear Families and Representatives,
Further to the recent communication we sent you on 24th June , today we have received further information regarding this matter. A former employee of our home has been arrested and charged in relation to the alleged sexual assault of a resident. This news is deeply distressing and will come as a shock to our beautiful community.
We understand this news will be upsetting for residents, families and our wider community. We want to provide you with the information we are able to share at this time. We expect that there will be media stories about the arrest and want to keep you informed as the issue unfolds.
The Police investigation commenced following a report that an assistant nurse had allegedly sexually assaulted a resident between November 2023 and February 2024. Whiddon was only recently notified that Police were conducting an investigation and has cooperated fully with their enquiries.
As soon as we became aware of the allegations, we reported the matter to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission and have continued to work closely with the relevant authorities.
Police have advised that the matter relates to one resident. We have been supporting the resident and their family and understand that no other residents or employees have been identified as being involved. Based on the information currently available to us, we believe this to be an isolated incident.
While the alleged offence is reported to have occurred before Whiddon commenced management of the home, we have commenced our own review to ensure our safeguards, screening practices and procedures remain robust and continue to protect the safety and wellbeing of residents.
We also want to reassure you that Whiddon maintains rigorous recruitment, screening and compliance processes, including mandatory background checks and ongoing workforce monitoring, to help ensure the highest standards of care and safety.
As this matter is now before the courts, we are unable to provide further detail regarding the charges or the individual involved. However, we are committed to supporting residents, families and representatives during this difficult time.
If you have any questions or concerns and would like to speak with someone privately, please contact Sharon at Reception on (02) 6645 2966.
We will also arrange an opportunity for families and representatives to meet with us to discuss any concerns and will provide further information as it becomes available.
Thank you for your patience, understanding and continued trust.
Kind regards,
The Whiddon Team