On today’s date a province wide state of emergency was declared by the government of Nova Scotia.

As we collectively navigate these challenging circumstances, CUPE members have continued to provide essential public services to Nova Scotians.  Please know that this work has not gone unnoticed.  I see you showing up to work every day and I thank you.  

Health and safety require that all front-line workers continue to provide Nova Scotians with essential services.  The health and safety of front-line workers requires support from all Nova Scotians.  This includes practicing social distancing and, if you have recently travelled or are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, self isolation. 

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COVID-19 UPDATE: Psychologically Safe Workplaces

We know this is a very difficult time for public sector workers in all sectors — those on the front lines and behind the scenes, those who have been ordered to work from home, those working without child care, and those who are facing layoffs, not to mention the general anxiety as our world as we know it changes hour by hour. Staff and union executives are working very hard to make sure important information is shared with our members and that members’ concerns are responded to as quickly as possible.

We appreciate everything our members are doing to hold it together. Please do not hesitate to contact union staff or executive if there is anything we can do to help.

Tips for maintaining a psychologically safe workplace during a pandemic

CUPE is proud to be on the leading edge of psychological health and safety practices in the workplace. Psychological health and safety is focused on preventing mental injuries in much the same way that traditional health and safety has been focused on preventing physical injuries.

With the world focused on addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, the sense of feeling psychologically safe and supported in the workplace could be seriously compromised.

Read more…COVID-19 UPDATE: Psychologically Safe Workplaces

COVID-19 and Income Supports for Workers Q and A

What is your situation? 

I am an employee with COVID-19 and/or in isolation: 

  • Your employer may have a short-term disability or sick leave program that you need to apply for before applying for EI Sickness Benefits. Check your collective agreement or contact your CUPE local.
  • If you have worked more than 600 hours in the past year or since your last EI claim, you qualify for EI sickness benefits. For more information on EI Sickness Benefits, check out the section on EI below.
  • If you have not worked more than 600 hours in the past year or since your last EI claim, the federal government is providing an Emergency Care Benefit, which will provide benefits comparable to EI for up to 15 weeks. More details will be forthcoming from the Federal government.
  • Your job will be protected during this leave of absence by federal and provincial legislation.

Read more…COVID-19 and Income Supports for Workers Q and A