SEIU-West recognizes Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Week from May 3-9 and Mental Health Week from May 4-10, two areas of particular importance as we face the COVID-19 pandemic.
It’s understandable that many of us are struggling with our mental health these days – the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted our daily lives and caused global grief and anxiety amongst our communities – so SEIU-West has developed this Mental Health Support During COVID-19 page in order to reassure you that you’re not alone, and that there are many resources that can help you during this challenging time.
On our Mental Health page, you’ll find resources in support of maintaining physical distancing while still being social (hello, Zoom!), mutual aid groups, Employee Family Assistance Program (EFAP) information, as well as many free 24/7 call lines and websites available to those wanting mental health support. For example, the Canadian Mental Health Association now has a Saskatchewan-wide wellness support line for each community – visit this link for more information.
We have also launched our OH&S resources page – on this page, you’ll find valuable information on your rights at work, a descriptive step-by-step guide on your right to refuse, workload, Worker Safety Committee information, and Occupational Health Committee (OHC) information. On our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page, you’ll also find information about personal protective equipment (PPE) and other safety-related questions.
President Barb Cape has been sharing important safety information as well – check out her a sample of her President’s Message videos below:
Statistics Canada has recently shared a survey in relation to COVID-19 and your mental health – we encourage you to participate here.
The two recognition weeks of Mental Health Week and OH&S week go hand in hand because we know that mental health is an OH&S issue. Remember, if you need support in these areas, be sure to contact our Member Resource Centre at 1.888.999.7348 ext. 2298 or use the contact form.
April 28 is National Day of Mourning, a day held each year dedicated to remembering workers who have lost their lives on the job or been stricken by job-related illnesses. It also reminds us that improving workplace health and safety is an ongoing struggle.
Would you like to be a delegate at the 2025 SEIU-West Convention? It's being held in Saskatoon May 27-29.
April 22 is Earth Day, a day for people worldwide to unite in a global movement to acknowledge the climate crisis and seize the opportunities of a zero-carbon future.