On 13 November the Coroner’s Court of Victoria delivered its findings in response to the inquest into the death of Patrick McCabe.
Patrick McCabe lived with Wesley Mission Victoria in supported accommodation for people with disability for 16 years. He was much loved by staff, volunteers and the people he lived with. Patrick died while on a supported weekend holiday at Phillip Island on 27 April, 2014. The inquest into his death commenced in 2016.
Wesley Mission Victoria commissioned an independent review in 2014. They didn’t wait for the Coroner’s findings and immediately made changes to the way they planned supported holidays and communicated with families, as well as updating the staff procedures in place. These changes were advised to the Coroner in 2016.
In 2017 Wesley Mission Victoria joined with 23 other entities to form Uniting Vic.Tas.
In response to the findings, Paul Linossier, CEO of Uniting Vic.Tas said:
“Our thoughts continue to be with the McCabe family and we extend our deepest sympathies for their loss.”
“We want to ensure we provide the best quality care, support and opportunities for people with disability and their families. We will continue to provide opportunities for clients to go on holidays, as we believe that everyone deserves to relax and enjoy new experiences.” Mr Linossier added.
“We will take time now to review the Coroner’s findings and review current practice across Uniting with regard to holidays for clients with disability. We will put in place a process of regular review that ensures that the best possible systems are in place to ensure safe and rewarding holiday experiences.”
