Message from CEO Rebecca Cattermole

Dear all,

This week, there has been significant reports in the media relating to stories of abuse, assault and neglect in the disability sector. It is difficult and distressing to read and watch these stories, but awareness and a strong reporting culture is our most important safeguarding tool.

At St John of God Accord, we have a zero-tolerance policy for any form of abuse, discrimination, neglect, or mistreatment of people with disabilities. All our caregivers undergo mandatory training to ensure that we safeguard the people we support.

It is our firm commitment to maintain a safe, supportive, inclusive and respectful environment where every individual is treated with dignity and fairness, and feels empowered to speak up if something is not quite right.

I encourage each of you to be vigilant, supportive, and proactive in ensuring that we uphold these principles. As you will recall from your training, the signs of abuse or neglect can be very subtle. If you have any concerns, witness or become aware of any such behaviour, please report it immediately. You will be treated with the utmost respect and confidentiality.

This is a distressing topic. If you need support, please don’t hesitate to contact our EAP provider Converge for confidential and free assistance on 1300 687 327.

Please feel free to contact me on  if you have any concerns.

Kind regards,

RC, CEO