In the five years since the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus pandemic, Canadian benefits plan sponsors have adapted their offerings and continue to apply many of the lessons learned over the course of the health crisis. Chris Zelasko, president of Peak Benefit Solutions Inc. says while his plan sponsor clients initially focused on the […]
More than half (55 per cent) of Canadian women employees say hybrid working has given them opportunities at work they wouldn’t have otherwise had, according to a new survey by International Workplace Group. The survey, which polled more than 500 women, found two-fifths (42 per cent) said that hybrid working arrangements have empowered them to […]
It’s been nearly two years since I slept through the night — my 15-month-old daughter is still waking up to nurse and I wasn’t sleeping consistently in the nine months before her birth due to typical pregnancy symptoms. I’m very tired, the kind of fatigue you just take for granted and roll into your overall […]
While research so far indicates being a mental-health first aid trainee is neither clearly beneficial or harmful, it’s also important to consider potential risks and ensure there’s oversight and governance. Dr. Bill Howatt, founder of Howatt Human Resources As a trained mental-health professional, I approach mental-health training critically. Mental-health first aid training can be a […]
While the conversation around mental-health benefits is typically focused on coverage levels, it’s important for employers to unpack the entire mental-health bucket and consider the impacts of other factors like psychological safety and diversity, equity and inclusion. Paula Allen, global leader and vice-president of research and client insights at Telus Health, says there’s a great […]
Even though humans spend a third of their lives asleep, it’s often taken for granted, but people are waking up to how sleep — or lack of sleep — is affecting their health and well-being. “All of medicine has been focused on how we do when we’re awake, but now we’re trying to pick up […]
The YVR’s manager of workplace well-being discusses new mental-health initiatives, supporting a growing workforce and landscape photography. Q: What new programs or initiatives are you looking to implement? A: At YVR, employees have access to a comprehensive set of resources that support their well-being, including wellness programs focused on health promotion, education and preventative care, […]
Nova Scotia is increasing paid domestic violence leave from three to five days, effective April 1. The change aims to give employees more time to access essential medical, legal and social support services, according to a press release. Currently, employees with at least three months of service are eligible for up to 16 continuous weeks […]
Economic uncertainty, including the potential for new U.S. tariffs, is prompting businesses to review their workforce strategies and benefits policies to remain resilient. While employers have no control if or when their products may be subject to tariffs, there are steps that can be taken to be more prepared. Read: Financial markets resilient in wake […]
An article on the Ontario Municipal Employees’ Retirement System’s 2024 financial results was the most-read story on BenefitsCanada.com this past week. Here are the top five human resources, benefits, pension and investment stories of the last week: 1. OMERS returns 8.3%, grows net assets to $138.2BN in 2024 2. Fewer millennials, gen Z employees on […]