Social Services

March 21 has been observed around the world every year since 1966 as International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

'Our union firmly believes that the province should focus its efforts to ensure that every Islander earns a livable wage and maintains a certain standard of living.' - Shelley Ward.

"The community social services sector in this province represents a vast number of providers in every community across this province," said Karagianis. She and others stressed the value and contribution of social workers and community social services workers in B.C. communities.

BCGEU welcomes opposition call for formal recognition and urges the Campbell Liberal government to act.

'These are real gains for health care workers.' - BCGEU president Darryl Walker.

'Every B.C. community depends on community social services workers.' - BCGEU.

'The proposed changes are an unconscionable attack on the most vulnerable segment of the Island’s labour force.' - Shelley Ward.

Toronto (February 10, 2010) - Employers at 20 agencies across Ontario sign on to Joint Declaration with OPSEU, CUPE and OASIS.

'The clients, their families and even the employer have all been vocal in their support of the striking workers.' - Carol Furlong.

'How common is it for staff to witness or experience aggression in the clients they support?'

Deal includes retroactive pay for employees plus improvements in several other areas of the contract.

Budget cuts by Campbell government hurt vulnerable young children and leave 40 highly-trained therapists without jobs.

'We're honoured that they've chosen our union as the organization that can help them address their concerns.' - Darryl Walker.

CCPA study says March budget should extend benefits to at least 26 weeks for unemployed Canadians.

Two provincial watchdogs issue report calling for better complaint process and province-wide tracking system.

The important work of all those who care for and support individuals with developmental disabilities is being celebrated in dozens of communities across Ontario today.

"Our community is losing a supportive home for some of our most vulnerable citizens living with mental illness."

The goal is to stop the government's 'low road approach' to dealing with the recession and replace it with a 'high road approach' that protects services.

'These dedicated workers provide a vital service that Manitobans rely on and reduces the strain put on our health care system every day. It’s time to make their jobs, full-time jobs.'

"The employer's frequent assertion that they want to establish a new relationship with unions has been exposed as hollow," says James Cavalluzzo, chair of the BCGEU bargaining committee.

“Many Manitobans don’t know that these dedicated health care workers are actually treated like casual employees."

Agencies that provide services to those with disabilities, helping them live independently in the community, say the government is trying to climb out of its deficit on the backs of the province's

Unless the provincial government and the NHA decide to continue funding ATLAS, the only youth residential addictions service in the northwest will close on December 31.

"The Work Ability Centre is renowned for the quality of their programming. If anything, it should be expanded, not closed down." Darryl Walker, president BCGEU/NUPGE

Another devastating cut to services for some of the most vulnerable people in our society.  Waddell's Haven Guest Home in Mission, B.C. at full capacity to be closed.

Action-based initiative, called Uniting to End Violence Against Women, will connect shelters that help abused women across the country.

NUPGE's national secretary-treasurer looks at the long-term impact on government revenues and public services of the Harper government's new Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs). 'How are you going to buy your own health care with $400?' he asks.

Three Saskatchewan unions combine efforts to improve wages and working conditions for those who help the most vulnerable people in society.

'I’m appalled.... Addictions don’t take holidays.' - MGEU president Peter Olfert.

'Another blow to the provision of mental health and addictions services.' - Darryl Walker.

'These workers deserve our utmost respect and recognition.' - Social Services Minister Donna Harpauer.

First province in Canada to join with dozens of municipalities in celebrating the contribution CSS workers make to communities across the country.

This fall municipal governments from across the country, representing more than 7.5 million Canadians, have passed official resolutions acknowledging Nov. 6 as Canadian Community Social Service Workers Appreciation Day.

NUPGE's Larry Brown says tax cuts benefitting mainly the wealthy are the cause of current government deficits and it will be unfair and damaging to the economy if public sector workers become scapegoats and are forced to pay the price in lost jobs and pay cuts.

'ATLAS provided vital services that won't be replaced.' - BCGEU president Darryl Walker.

Advises workers with family services and housing department to 'hold off' until more information is available.

Demonstrators remind Premier Gordon Campbell of promise to create the best support system in Canada.

Edmonton, Regina and Saskatoon proclaim Nov. 6 Community Social Service Workers Appreciation Day

'The fact is that the people who made out like bandits, shoved money into their own pockets by the bucketful, and drove our economy into a crisis, have no apparent shame.' - Larry Brown.

On November 6th the Government of Manitoba and MGEU will recognize the importance of highlighting the work of Manitoba's Community Social Service Workers and to acknowledge their vital contribution to our communities.

"We're honoured that they have chosen to join our organization for the security and certainty of a union contract." BCGEU president Darryl Walker

NUPGE launches the second year of recognition for community social service workers.

'Both sides worked together to make the work site a better place for the staff and clients.' - BCGEU president Darryl Walker.

The Human Resources Council for the Voluntary & Non-profit Sector is conducting a confidential survey which may be of interest to individuals aged 45+ planning to retire or make other work changes, or who are already retired.

Focusing attention on the crisis of murdered and missing Aboriginal women.

'The OECD recently reported that Canada has the second highest rate of jobless people living in poverty in the OECD.  But the Harper government's proposed EI reforms will only benefit the "deserving" few.' - Larry Brown.

One in five cannot pay for basic needs like glasses and dental care or participate meaningfully in community recreational activities.

'Men in particular are taking a hit in ways Canada hasn't seen in a very long time.'

'It's extremely disappointing ... a real set back.' - BCGEU president Darryl Walker.

'The time for major changes in the management of the Agency is long overdue.' - Joan Jessome.

There has been an increase of more than 50 per cent in demand for Charlottetown's women's shelter.

Four unions have reached a settlement with the BC government that provides compensation for community social services workers who lost job security provisions under the Liberal government's 2002 contract-breaking legislation known as Bill 29.

NAPE says home care and support services for persons with disabilities must be addressed in Newfoundland and Labrador.

'NAPE has been telling government for many years that there are systemic problems.' - Carol Furlong.

New survey by Statistics Canada says more than 80% were fleeing an abusive situation.

Community-based women's shelters look to the international scene to find solutions that help women escape domestic violence.

'A devastating impact on women, particularly those living in poverty, women of colour, Aboriginal women, and other marginalized women.' - HSABC

'Sandwich generation' needs help coping simultaneously with children and aging parents.'

Five million Canadians provide care for their loved ones with long-term health problems.

'The employer wants to weaken layoff language in our collective agreement and we’re not prepared to accept any take aways.'

Province-wide SGEU campaign features firefighters, highways workers, social workers and corrections workers.

'Governments must improve social assistance programs in these tough times or we're going to see more families in Canada living in harsh, desperate circumstances.' - NUPGE president James Clancy.

Web resource helps Canadians demand that the federal government act to improve Employment Insurance, pension and retirement security as well as stop banks from gouging consumers.

Critics pounce on Harper government for failing to expand program to cope with rapidly rising unemployment figures.

Events across the province are drawing attention to the value of a wide range of crucial services that make communities better places to live and raise families.

March 21 is the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

Providing housing and support services will cut the costs of dealing with the problem by more than half, provincial secretariat estimates.

Bill C-4 (the proposed Not-for-profit Corporations Act) increases administrative demand on thousands of federal non-profit organizations and charities across Canada without addressing the critical lack of stable and secure long-term funding.

Why are several Canadian provinces cutting back at a time when the economy needs stimulus across the board, asks NUPGE's Larry Brown.

'It means that they will now have protections like a grievance procedure, shop stewards, strong health and safety language and, of course, higher wages."' - Darryl Walker.

'They make our communities better and our unions stronger.' - James Clancy.

'The income gap has widened to the point that the top 10% of B.C. families now earn more than the entire bottom half of families.' - CCPA.

March 21 is the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

Campbell government deregulated recovery homes in British Columbia after winning power seven years ago.

Investigation indicates widespread abuses by private operators who are benefiting from millions in public funding.

US Researchers have discovered human antibodies that are able to neutralize not only H5N1 bird flu but other strains of influenza. There is hope now to develop them into lifesaving treatments.

But country's highest court rules in favour of labour groups on how EI rates were set from 2002 and 2005

As impact of the economic crisis is felt there are concerns that governments will further cut those community social services that help remove barriers to people with disabilities.

Acknowledging the vital role that community social service workers play

Acknowledging the vital role that community social service workers play

NUPGE acknowledges the commitment and dedication of workers in the field

Communities acknowledge the vital role that workers play in supporting individuals and families.

Community social services workers will receive a new bonus early next year thanks to the efforts of the Community Social Services Bargaining Association of Unions (CSSBA), led by the BCGEU.

The Saskatchewan Government and General Employees' Union (SGEU/NUPGE) has launched a new campaign to promote the value of public services.

The Alberta government is being accused of failing to protect children in care and trying to hide problems with the child welfare system from the public.

Children in the care of the Ministry of Social Services in Regina are at risk as an emergency situation in the foster care system escalates, says the Saskatchewan Government and General Employees' Union (SGEU/NUPGE), the union which represents front-line child protection workers and Family Services staff.

'The work they do is critical but it often goes unrecognized.' - James Clancy

Canadian Psychological Association says big challenge awaits Oct. 14 election winner

'Over 25,000 women and children in Alberta were turned away from overcrowded shelters last year.' - James Clancy, National President of NUPGE

Earlier this summer, the bargaining committee representing Manitoba Government Community Workers, members of the Manitoba Government and General Employees' Union (MGEU/NUPGE), reached a tentative deal with Manitoba government representatives on a new contract.

Costing economy $51 billion annually

Increases of 19% to 21.67% over 4.25 years

OPSEU calling for increased pressure on politicians to bring about a settlement

Critics say the move won't help the vast majority of Albertan residents struggling with severe disabilities

OPSEU president scheduled to make presentation on Bill 77

Survey finds 43% targeted in the past year by clients, co-workers and supervisors

Confidentiality restrictions prevent response to unfair attacks

Research confirms observations by many of NUPGE's front-line workers

Conditions so bad that 74% would consider comparable jobs in other fields

Improvements include monetary items and mileage

'If Bill 77 goes ahead as is, it will have a hugely detrimental effect.' - Warren (Smokey) Thomas

'Profound change is essential if people living with mental illness are to receive the help they need and deserve.' - James Clancy

Ontario caseloads more than twice the national average

'We reject a government policy that closes quality care centres and puts people at risk.' - OPSEU president Warren (Smokey) Thomas

Premiums paid by workers and employers diverted to other uses by successive governments

Decision expected from B.C. government before fall

Poverty afflicts 12.6% of all Ontario children including 44% of all children in low-income families

Breakthrough means plan will be in place by April 1, 2010

High turnover rates and burnout of existing staff also major problems

Union releases poll information from workers on the front lines as well as public polling data showing widespread concern about lack of funding and resources

NUPGE releases new leaflet on renewing community-based social services

Councils supporting campaign across province

'The minister may not know what is going on in his own ministry.' - George Heyman

New survey shows staffing crisis among community agencies is getting worse, not better

Desperate need for our governments to invest more in the community support, affordable housing and health care that people with mental illnesses require.

As homelessness worsens in Canada, the federal government can no longer justify spending untold billions of dollars on war.

New Brunswick Child and Youth Advocate, Richard, makes recommendations for child protection services. Child Protection workers across Canada have already identified these issues from their own experiences. Now governments need to act!

'The residents must be treated with dignity and respect.' - George Heyman

NUPGE planning national appreciation day later in the year

Domestic carriers must stop charging severely disabled passengers fees for extra space or caregivers.

'Members should be prepared to walk.' MGEU

Victoria headquarters renovations supervised by Tom Christensen cost three times original estimates

$250,000 over five years to help train managers and staff

'I am always struck by their dedication, compassion and professionalism.' - James Clancy

Throne Speech contains a vague hint but no promise that action will be taken

Exploring solutions to excessive caseloads and workplace stress

As in Ontario, Manitoba's social assistance rates are not keeping up with the cost of living. In Manitoba 60,000 people use employment and income assistance (EIA) as their major source of income. This assistance program as well as the shelter assistance has not kept pace with inflation.

October 1-7 is Mental Illness Awareness Week

A broad coalition of community organizations and poverty groups have formed to address the ever-worsening poverty in Ontario.

'This is as much an issue of public safety as it is about wages.' - MGEU president Peter Olfert

Employees have fallen far behind others working in the same sector.

Ends first strike in Society's history

Wages and workload key unresolved issues

Wages and workload among unresolved issues

Developmental services in London and Prince Edward County may soon be back on the job

Raises range from $1.47 to $1.81 an hour over two years

Workers in London and Prince Edward County remain off the job

Elgin employees reach agreement while negotiations continue in other areas

Tillsonburg workers settle while other groups remain out

'Shocking ignorance of standard back-to-work protocols.' - OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas

'We can win this and achieve fairness for all developmental services workers across Ontario.' - Warren (Smokey) Thomas

Madeline Meilleur locks her office door as bus loads of strikers picket

Problems faced by employees of the Ontario Disability Support Program

'I will advance the cause of accessibility.' - David Onley

Striking employees are joined by families and patients

'I’m calling on the premier to write a cheque now and get everyone back to work.' - Warren (Smokey) Thomas

'We really wanted to avoid a strike but the government has not come forward.' - Denise Sands, OPSEU Local 144

'We must rebuild our capacity as a society to care for our most vulnerable citizens.' - James Clancy

More than 1,000 workers could be on strike by June 25 with 15 other groups ready to follow

'We are among the lowest-paid workers in the entire public sector.' - Nancy Schembri

Labour has long complained that Ottawa is diverting billions in premiums collected from ordinary workers

17 of 34 units have already given negotiators strong strike mandates

'We care deeply for our clients and do not want to disrupt their services.' - Larry McCrea

Events scheduled in London, Kingston and Thunder Bay

George Heyman demands to know who was consulted before decision was made

Proposed legislation not perfect but it would correct main failings of current system, says Canada's largest labour body

'Our goal this week is to address key issues facing these workers and chart the best way forward for everyone.' - NUPGE President James Clancy

Employers version of bumping rights language rejected by mediator

Via Rail must make passenger cars more accessible

Government document contradicts statements by children and family development minister

After accusing Liberals of using Employment Insurance fund as a 'partisan piggy bank', Harper Conservatives are now doing the same thing.

'To many of us, people with developmental disabilities are invisible.' - Leah Casselman

'We're pleased to welcome these two groups and are already working with them.' George Heyman

Harper government in Ottawa planning to boycott March 30 ceremony in New York

'We hope this ... will make all CAS workplaces safer for child welfare workers.' - OPSEU president Leah Casselman

'The result is higher fees, longer wait lists and reduced child care services across the province.' - BCGEU president George Heyman

Everyone who wants to see these workers get a fair and just settlement should send a message to Mary Anne Chambers, Minister of Children and Youth Services.

Workers say children from coast to coast are at risk due to high caseloads, impossible workloads and government cuts

'While the work they do is critical, it often goes unrecognized.' - NUPGE President James Clancy

Appeal to Campbell government to stop systematic transfers

Ontario activists and supporters encouraged to find out about events taking place in their community

Seasonal workers facing serious delays

New minister of community and social services signals more sympathetic approach

It has proven its worth to the Vancouver community.

NAPE says money is available but province is not acting