That kind word or smile can make a big difference in someone’s day
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“We shouldn’t just be kind and considerate of people right now during the pandemic, we should always be. I never thought I would live through something like this, and it’s made me change the way I see people and how I see things. People need to be kinder …
Last updated: Jun 1, 2021
We are essential – we have the power
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"I’m an Industrial Electrician. I work all over the hospital servicing all of the electrical systems – including lighting, power outlets, power distribution, and any kind of electrical motor and controls for HVAC systems. Electricians take care of …
Last updated: Jun 1, 2021
I communicate with them in a simple way
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"I hum when I clean. The patients will smile and laugh sometimes with me because I communicate with them in a simple way – just “Hi, how are you doing? I’m coming into your room.” It makes their day. I’ve been a housekeeper since August 2018, and I’m the …
Last updated: Jun 1, 2021
Anti-Indigenous racism in hospital ERs: HEU statement
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Jennifer Whiteside, Secretary-Business Manager of the Hospital Employees’ Union issued the following statement today: “Our health care system must be a place of compassion, comfort and care for all who need it. “Today, the Health Minister announced an …
Last updated: Jun 1, 2021
It's an opportunity for me to help and take care of people
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“We play a critical role in keeping the hospitals clean to protect patients and residents. I work as a Housekeeper in Emergency. When rooms become empty, I work with a team to fully clean the rooms, change the sheets, and make the beds. I also work as a …
Last updated: Jun 1, 2021
Under-regulated, under-researched and largely privatized: Assisted living seniors’ care in BC
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COVID-19 has shone a light on serious problems in our seniors’ care system resulting from years of underfunding, privatization and precarious working conditions. These problems are not isolated to long-term care, however. New research published today …
Last updated: Jun 1, 2021
June 8 is Collective Bargaining Rights Day – a proud legacy for HEU members
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Thirteen years ago – on June 8, 2007 – the Supreme Court of Canada established collective bargaining as a constitutionally-protected right for all Canadian workers. The Court's decision was in response to a five-year court battle led by HEU against a 2002 …
Last updated: Jun 1, 2021
HEU calls for systemic change to end racism and white supremacy
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Black people in the U.S. are rising up against the police murder of George Floyd, against white supremacy and against systemic racism and police violence. We stand in solidarity with all people fighting for racial and economic justice. And HEU members …
Last updated: Jun 1, 2021
B.C. government announces pandemic allowance for all health care and community social services workers
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The B.C. government announced a pandemic payment today that will cover health care and community social services workers, as well as staff in correctional facilities. The temporary pandemic pay will cover more than 250,000 front-line workers who provide a …
Last updated: May 19, 2020
North Island Hospital housekeeping, waste management to be brought in-house
News
Housekeeping and waste management services currently delivered by Compass Canada (Crothall) at North Island Hospital sites in Comox and Campbell River will be brought under the direct control of the Vancouver Island Health Authority starting October 1. …
Last updated: Jun 1, 2021