Support Worker Lost Job Despite Exemption After Client’s Death

I was part of a 3 member team, working 24 hr shifts supporting a 36 yr old lady with complicated intellectual problems. I was in this position for over 5 years and enjoyed my job. All the service users were jabbed on the same day. 2 days later one of the SU died of a heart attack, he was 30 years old and as far as I know was in good health. Of course it was never considered it was anything but bad luck. I started hearing talk of Healthcare workers being mandated to have the jab so I went to my Doctor to seek an exemption for serious past medical issues and was shocked by her attitude. It was a complete waste of time although I think she was a little embarrassed at her stance. I was so relieved when I found out about NZDSOS and was listened to and validated and was able to obtain an exemption.

I was feeling sure that I would be able to keep my job as I was working 1 on 1 and we never went into the community except to go to the library.

I had accumulated 53 sick days and was happy to use them if I got covid, I was happy to do regular testing and I did a health and safety report, all to no avail. I was given till 15th Oct 2021 to have the jab otherwise I would be terminated. I was upset by the way I was treated by management leading up to my dismissal. I am 64 years of age and still have a small mortgage so was worried about losing my home. I have not been sick with covid but many of the infected support staff have been asked to return to work early as they are so short staffed. I’m the only one in my entire family of 20+ who has refused the jab which has been very awful. Even with my exemption they all thought I was crazy, I was unable to have Xmas with them or attend my sisters 60th birthday party. I worry so much for them.

I have not been able to wear a mask as I gag just putting it on, I asked my Dr when I went for other exemption if she could at least write me an exemption for that and she refused to even consider it. I could say so much more about the awful stuff but I will finish by saying I am heartened to know that we have good Doctors with heart and honesty and this gives me hope. Thank you all so much for what you are doing.