VSEA.org

“The VSEA Displaced Waterbury Worker subcommittee believes that the opinions of actual frontline workers will be extremely persuasive and will ensure our legislators and State officials are making wise decisions about our future worksites and workspace design,” explained [Committee Co-Chair and displaced ANR worker Kellie] Merrell. “We strongly believe that a cost-effective approach to providing the best service to our communities includes having qualified, experienced staff working in conditions that are at least as good—or better—than the conditions that existed prior to Irene.”

Read survey and press release here!

"We are extremely concerned that the administration’s plan seriously underestimates the need for such beds and that the total number of Level I beds should be in the 50-60 range."
 
Column speaks about what’s important for Vermont’s acute mentally ill! Now the question is, are legislators listening? 

"…Morristown now says it can be a residential facility for mental health patients for the next two years. At first it will have eight beds, but that could grow to 16."

Vermont House Of Representatives, Vermont State Hospital Caregivers, Vermont State Hospital Medical Director Dr. Jay Batra, Vermont Psychiatric Association, Vermont State Employees Association, Vermont Federation of Nurses and Health Professionals, National Association of Social Workers (Vermont Chapter), Central Vermont Medical Center CEO Judy Tarr Tartaglia, Central Vermont Medical Center Medical Director Dr. Peter Thomashow, Central Vermont Medical Center Psychiatric Unit Head James Tautfest, Dr. Larry Thomson, Retired, 31 Years, Vermont State Hospital Psych Director, Fletcher Allen Medical Center Chair of Psychiatry Dr. Robert Pierattini, Fletcher Allen Inpatient Psychiatry Services Medical Director Dr. Isabelle Desjardins and the editorial page of the Rutland Herald/Times Argus.

Flier attached for VSEA members to disseminate and educate!

"The RIFing of State Hospital workers is totally unacceptable."