Shepstone Place works towards smooth sailing
Shepstone Place place focuses on rebuilding trust
The Shepstone Place for the Aged action meeting has fulfilled its purpose. As of its last meeting recently, Chairperson, Sheryl Lane agreed to step down and this paved the way for the election of a new committee.
READ MORE: Former Shepstone Place administrator accused of fraud
Shepstone Place trustees speak out
Holding a special meeting was also discussed, even though the constitution does not permit it. During the meeting, Brian Greaves announced he has agreed to be the home’s acting chairperson, indicating he believed the home was ‘a head with four legs’.
“The head being admin and finance, while the legs are nursing, running of the kitchen, cleaning, and welfare.”
He has since met with each of these respective ‘legs’. Mr Greaves also discussed having a meeting with the Department of Social Development, however, this meeting was delayed until August 19.
This was followed by a meeting between Sheryl Lane, Roleen Vaughan and David, and Stefanie Bun. Mr Greaves informed attendees there were currently five empty rooms and two empty cottages at the home, after which Dirk Vercuil asked about the progress of the ongoing fraud case.
It was stated the amount stood at about R900 000, but could easily be R1,3-million. After some debate, Vercuil explained the matter would be expedited if it was brought before the Durban Commercial Crimes Court, and he was concerned the matter would be brought before the courts anyway.
Councillor Edith Lite requested Mr Greaves gain feedback from the attorney on the progress of the matter. He was tasked with providing a report at the next meeting on August 20, after which Mr Greaves extended his appreciation for all the positive support and offers, which were made to the home by residents.
“Amid the accusations and various opinions of where blame and responsibilities belong, this has led to the home being in its present position. In taking the lessons from this abuse, the debt to all of the causalities; it needs to be acknowledged and repaid.”
He added there had been a breakdown in trust between management and staff of Shepstone Place, residents and those who have empathy with the victims.
“There was an abuse of trust that has hurt Mrs Lane deeply. Blame fixes nothing; much tighter financial controls are now in place, which can be seen in the improved cash flow,” he concluded.
READ THIS: Progress for embattled Shepstone Place
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