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A HIGH-RANKING Government social worker has spoken out to reveal a dysfunctional department at breaking point, placing children at risk of dying. Fearing a "witch-hunt", the veteran Families SA social worker spoke on condition of anonymity, calling for an immediate end to an efficiency-driven staff freeze. It's estimated a 4 per cent Government salary savings push has resulted in 58 vacant full-time child protection positions across SA. "I'm driven to this, and I don't do this lightly, because of the diabolical state that we're in, and out of concern that there will be a death soon," the social worker said. He says in Adelaide's northern region, 1200 notifications during July, August and September were "closed no action" but many of those children remain in danger of abuse or neglect. CASE STUDIES A MOTHER set fire to a backyard shed. She barricaded herself in her house with her nine and 11 year-old children. Police kick door in and find her holding a 30cm kitchen knife. SCHOOL notifies Families SA of 13 year-old girl regularly physically abused by her step mother. Girl bruised, cut and "stomped on". 12 YEAR-OLD boy taken to Modbury Hospital where he was resuscitated and rehydrated. Boy's diabetes is at a point where "if neglect is ongoing it may result in serious illness, complications and possible death". ONGOING physical and verbal abuse witnessed by children ranging in ages from seven to 13. Alcohol and drug addiction by mother and father who injects speed. Other addicts regularly visit the home. House has no food. Children fed at school and have limited social skills. Father was driving under the influence when police found children in the car. 10 YEAR-OLD rarely attends school because she cooks and feeds her month-old sibling. Mother has a mental illness and takes illegal drugs. Anger management issues with step father. MOTHER regularly passing out from drinking all day. Incapable of protecting two children under five from chronic violence by father. Neighbours report mother regularly verbally abuses children. "We're running by a bit of luck, but you don't need to be Einstein to recognise that some of these cases are a minute off disaster," the social worker said. "This is a problem nationally, I'm aware of that, but the reality is we have to do better. "This isn't about pay – its about these kids not getting a fair go and that's how our staff feel." The Public Service Association said 30 positions had not been filled following resignations and retirements and another 28 were vacant through long service and maternity leave. "We've met with the Minister (Jennifer Rankine) and the chief executive (Joslene Mazel) about the appalling situation of child protection in this state and the crisis is being ignored," PSA secretary Jan McMahon said. Ms Rankine said the Government would soon roll out $190 million for early intervention programs. "It is important to note that every child protection notification is assessed upon receipt and priority decisions are then made by professionals," she said. "I'm advised that the July to September figures show that each of the 155 Tier 1 (most serious) notifications were investigated." Adelaide Advertiser (25-11-2008) Kim Wheatley |
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