St John of God Richmond Hospital’s two longest-serving employees rack-up 81 years between them

Merlene ‘Merle’ Barratt and Angela Dougherty, both registered nurses, are the North Richmond hospital’s two longest-serving employees.

Ms Barratt started with the organisation back in 1968, making this her 51st year with the company.

She recalled moving to the Hawkesbury district only a few months before she began her employment.

Driving past the hospital one day, she decided to go in and introduce herself, as she had been looking for work as a nurse.

“The Brothers of St John of God managed the hospital at the time and they asked if I could start work the next day which I did and I have been there ever since,” Ms Barratt said.

“Nursing and the opportunity to make a tangible difference to the lives of our patients and their families is my motivation each and every day.”

Ms Barratt’s colleague, Ms Dougherty, began at St John of God Richmond in 1989, making 2019 her 30th year of service.

“I love the people I work with and the environment at Richmond Hospital – that’s what has kept me here for 30 years,” Ms Dougherty said.

The hospital’s roots in North Richmond date back to 1952 when the original hospital opened.

Acting Chief Executive Officer Lorna O’Brien said the hospital’s people were central to providing the best care in mental health by putting the person at the centre of their care.

“Each and every St John of God Richmond Hospital caregiver makes a difference to the people we serve,” Ms O’Brien said.

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

St John of God says its local full-time workforce has been employed at the hospital for almost a quarter longer than the national average work placement indicated in the HILDA Survey 2018.

The hospital’s average length of service for full-time employees is 9.7 years, which is above the national average of 7.5 years.

For part-time employees, the hospital’s average length of service is 8.5 years, compared to the 6.7-year national average.

“We have provided care for the Hawkesbury and surrounding community for over six 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 O’Brien said.

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