UNION COUNSELLORS: Who they are, What they do

UNION COUNSELLORS:  Who they are, What they do

Do you need help in a time of need?

Problems at work often spill over into the workplace, and vice versa.  With stress being the leading casue of workplace issues and sick leave, members need support from their union peers more than ever.  The BCGEU has trained Union Counsellors available as a resource and peer support to fellow workers trying to cope with workplace, personal or family challenges.  They are good listeners and they are the link between a worker and any type of social services in the community.

What do they do?

Union Counsellors help members identify and deal with problems by providing peer support and connecting them to services in their community.  Their role is to listen, identify the problem, refer the individual member to the proper community resource, and to follow up and take union action when appropriate.  Dealings with members are kept strictly confidential and referrals to community resources are completely voluntary.

What about with workplace problems?  Doesn't a steward do that?

Union counsellors work with union officers to address the underlying causes of problems in the workplace and the community.  The work in co-operation with shop stewards, health and safety representatives and other union officers to tackle conditions and work issues that may cause problems which impact directly on workers.  They can work hand in hand with stewards during grievances, layoffs or closures.  We know this can be stressful to workers and providing that extra support to a worker is critical.  The counsellors can assist workers in finding counselling services, financial services, or job placement services.

Are they trained?

Many of our counsellors are active in their community by sitting on various boards or organizations.  The union sends interested workers to take the Canadian Labour Congress/United Way Union Counsellor course.  The Basic course is one week in length and the Advanced course is one work.  Most of our Counsellors have their basic and advanced.  The course provides training in communications and interview skills, and learn about services and facilities available in the communities where members live.

How do I contact a Union Counsellor?

Call BCGEU Direct at 1-888-991-6062 and they will give you the name and phone number of a Counsellor in your area.  If there isn't anyone available directly in your area, you will be given a number of someone in an area close to you that you can contact by phone.  All calls are confidential.

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