Today, Fraser Health, Vancouver Coastal Health and Vancouver Island Health authorities announced they will bring home support services in-house. This is great news.

Your union has been lobbying to bring home care support workers under government employment for over two decades in order to address the precarious nature of contract-based work with private providers. Under the health authorities, home support workers will now have greater job security and will be able to provide better care to B.C. seniors. This is a government that works for people in action!

Home support services at the following agencies will be moved into direct employment with a health authority:

• Bayshore
• Beacon
• Great Vancouver Community Services Society HS
• Paramed
• St. Elizabeth HS
• We Care Home Health Services

Over the next 12-18 months, the transition to the health authorities will take place and members can be sure that no loss in wages, benefits or pension plans will occur. The health authorities are committed to the continuity of care for clients while recognizing and retaining the knowledge and experience of all home support staff.

Your union looks forward to engaging with the health authorities to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible and works in a way that supports both workers and clients. To read more about today's announcement and what it means for you, visit the following links:

Fraser Health: www.fraserhealth.ca

Vancouver Coastal Health: www.vch.ca/homesupport

Vancouver Island Health: Vancouver Island Health

Home support workers help clients maintain dignity and independence, enabling them to live longer and more independently in their own homes. This is a tremendous service to B.C. seniors and we thank you for your commitment to this work.

As discussions progress and more information becomes known, your union will keep you updated with the latest information. You can also connect with your steward.

In solidarity,

Scott De Long
VP, Component 8

UWU/MoveUP