Care workers rally over staffing, wages at continuing care homes
AUPE demands mandated minimum staffing levels and better pay as province shifts patients from hospitals.
Dozens of continuing care workers rallied in the rain in Calgary Monday, calling on the provincial government to address staffing shortages and wage concerns at long-term care facilities.
The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees launched its continuing care campaign this month, warning that Alberta's health-care restructuring is increasing pressures on long-term and continuing care facilities. "We're here to show that our members have had enough of the disrespect when it comes to undervaluing the work that they do on behalf of the residents in these facilities," said AUPE President Sandra Azocar.
The union is bargaining with Carewest for better wages while simultaneously raising broader systemic concerns. More Albertans with complex medical needs are being moved from hospitals into continuing care homes that often lack the staffing and resources to provide appropriate care, according to AUPE.
The Ministry of Assisted Living and Social Services called the dispute a local bargaining issue between AUPE and Carewest, saying it hopes the two sides will reach a fair resolution. The ministry rejected claims of unsafe transfers, stating patients move to continuing care only when suitable spaces are available.
AUPE is calling for mandated minimum staffing levels and care hours, improved wages and working conditions, and greater transparency around public funding provided to privately operated continuing care facilities.