In celebration of Personal Support Worker Day on May 19, 2022 Unifor salutes the contributions of the thousands of Unifor members who work as Personal Support Workers (PSWs) in Ontario, and Continuing Care Assistants (CCAs) in Nova Scotia.

PSW’s and CCAs have been on the front lines putting themselves in danger ever day by providing care for others during this unprecedented pandemic. In many health care facilities, PSW’s have been the backbone, providing care throughout the pandemic. There were thousands of PSW’s and CCA’s who contracted this disease as they worked through an unimaginable humanitarian crisis, especially in the long-term care sector.

“These workers deserve better as they continue to serve our most vulnerable, despite being overworked and undervalued by governments and employers,” said Katha Fortier, Assistant to Unifor National President and lead health care negotiator. “The conditions of work and the conditions of care are intertwined and this pandemic has further exposed the shameful working and living conditions that still continue every day due to insufficient government funding.”

PSWs and CCAs are incredible caregivers who try to make sure our loved ones are healthy and safe. This pandemic has further exposed the unjust working conditions these workers face every day due to insufficient government investment and continuous cost-cutting.

“Currently it’s a 4 hour target and  the health and safety of residents and workers are on the line it is inhumane not to provide the resources needed to provide care with respect and dignity for our seniors,” said Andy Savela, Unifor Health Care Director.

Unifor continues to call on provincial governments to implement a mandated, enforceable and measurable 4 hour minimum care standard.