Hospital Heroes

Employees at St John of God Burwood Hospital have worked at the facility for longer than the national average, with their longest serving caregivers notching up 31 years of service.

This includes Housekeeper MaryAnne Azize who joined the organisation in 1987.

“My aunty actually worked at the hospital and helped me get my job here after my daughter was born,” she said.

“Its surprising how quickly the years have gone by. I love the people and atmosphere at the hospital and the support I receive from management. It has been a really rewarding 31 years.”

The organisation’s roots in Burwood date back to 1957 when the original hospital opened and today, Mary-Anne has worked with the hospital for half its lifespan.

Additionally, the hospital’s parent organisation, St John of God Health Care, employs 46 people who have notched up the 40-year milestone and another 300 who have worked for 30 years or more. St John of God Burwood Hospital acting Chief Executive Officer Cindy Foot said the hospital’s people were central to providing the best that modern mental health care could offer by putting the person at the centre of their care.

“Each and every St John of God Burwood Hospital caregiver makes a difference to the lives of the people we serve through their work,” she said.

“Our caregivers, particularly those on the frontline are integral to our organisation by providing the best possible experience and care for patients and clients, to address their needs and foster a reason to hope.”

On average, St John of God Burwood Hospital’s full-time workforce has worked at the hospital for almost a quarter longer than the national average*.

The average length of service for full-time employees is 9.3 years which is above the national average of 7.5 years, while part-time employees have worked at the hospital for 10 years on average, which is well above the 6.7 year national average.

“We have provided care for the Burwood community for decades. Our well- established care, and role as an employer of choice in the region, is reflected in our experienced and long-serving workforce,” Ms Foot said.

“We thank all of our caregivers for being at the forefront of providing compassionate care for all people, whether they are just starting their careers or have been with us for many decades.”

*Source: HILDA Survey 2018

Maryanne Azize December has worked for St John of God Burwood since 1987