The Public Service Association (PSA) says it has signed a new collective agreement for workers at Anglican Family Care (AFC) in Otago, after last year's industrial action and the suspension of AFC staff by management before Christmas.
AFC staff provide caregiver support, home visits by social workers, food bank and budgeting services that help some of Otago's most vulnerable families.
Kerry Davies, PSA assistant secretary, said ''our members at AFC are pleased to have won an across-the-board cost of living increase, the key goal they wanted from collective bargaining.
''We're looking forward now to rebuilding the relationship between management and staff, so we can work together for mutual benefit in the future.''
Ms Davies said it was disappointing to have to need the assistance of the Employment Relations Authority to settle terms of the deal, and an improved workplace culture and relationships were being sought to help prevent assistance being needed next time.
''This matter could have been resolved much sooner if AFC had agreed to the recommendations of the independent facilitator,'' Ms Davies said.
''AFC staff work hard every day to support some of Otago's most vulnerable communities, and they deserve our gratitude and respect for that.
''Our focus now shifts to improving the workplace culture at AFC, so that everyone can thrive,'' Ms Davies said.
