Canadian employers have taken important steps forward on a range of diversity, equity and inclusion matters. That work continues, particularly in the context of neurodiversity, which applies to an estimated 15 per cent to 20 per cent of the global population. Neurodiversity is a broad category that includes autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia, Tourette’s syndrome, […]
As I write this column, I’m reflecting on the spectrum of weather I’ve witnessed this past winter. From my office window in southwestern Ontario, I looked out onto snowy rooftops for maybe a week over the last several months. That’s contrasted with a recent trip to Nova Scotia, where a series of winter storms brought […]
The organization’s chief inclusion officer discusses building an inclusive learning roadmap, the adoption of AI in the HR space and finding ways to nourish her soul amid life’s daily demands. Q: What top challenges do you face in your role? A: Harmonizing company objectives with internal and external expectations — which are influenced by cultural […]
With 2024 well underway, it’s important for employers to adapt their strategies in the ever-evolving landscape of employee benefits. Employee expectations continue to evolve and the emphasis on mental health, well-being and personalized benefits continues to grow, requiring plan sponsors to balance innovation with keeping costs in check during uncertain economic conditions. Read: How family-building […]
U.S. generation Z employees are more likely to expect a tailored, year-round benefits experience than other employees, according to a new survey by MetLife Inc. The survey, which polled more than 2,800 employers and more than 5,000 employees, found nearly two-thirds (63 per cent) of gen-Zers said they wish their employer offered more personalized benefits […]
An article on how the federal government should ensure its new Canadian Dental Care Plan doesn’t displace existing employer-sponsored dental coverage was the most-read story on BenefitsCanada.com. Here are the top five human resources, benefits, pension and investment stories of the past week: 1. Tax credit could ensure national dental-care plan doesn’t displace employer-sponsored coverage: expert […]
Employers can use the time surrounding ‘Blue Monday’ to ensure they’re communicating properly with employees and highlighting mental-health supports, says Gianna Ricciardi, vice-president and practice leader at Vita Assure Inc. Blue Monday — typically the third Monday in January — is considered to be the saddest day of the year because the combination of dreary weather […]
A story on how plan sponsors and insurers are considering covering weight-loss drugs as part of a broader push towards more inclusive benefits was the most-read benefits story on BenefitsCanada.com this year. Here are the 10 most popular benefits news stories of the year: 1. How plan sponsors, insurers are considering coverage of weight-loss drugs amid rising […]
With the end of the year approaching, some employers and health practitioners may feel the need to tell employees to use up their benefits, but Rob Van De Cappelle, national benefits consultant at Cowan Insurance Group, cautions against this approach. “I tell employers and employees the benefits plan is there to keep you healthy and […]
Long before the coronavirus pandemic upended the workplace and impacted absence and disability management, employers have been rethinking these programs by taking a proactive approach. Lululemon Athletica Inc.’s accommodations program supports employee financial well-being and building employer trust by allowing employees to continue working as much as possible, said Jared Fu (pictured right), the apparel […]