Unifor health care conference in Nova Scotia draws members from across Canada

Unifor represents more than 35,000 health care and social services workers across Canada, the union said, and its Healthcare and Social Services Conference brought leadership and members from across the country to Hunts Point, N.S., for a weekend the union described as focused on strengthening connections, sharing experiences and building solidarity across the sector.¹

The conference ran under the theme Connect, Learn and Laugh, according to Unifor. Members took part in a personality workshop led by guest speaker Kari Chiappetta, exploring how understanding different personalities and communication styles can help build stronger teams in their workplaces.¹

Unifor National President Lana Payne told members the union can count on them to be there. "The never-wavering, never-give-up attitude you bring to your trade unionism, the way you tackle challenges head-on and stand up to politicians and health care administrators — I can always count on you to be there," Payne said. "You are true union builders."¹

Unifor Atlantic Regional Director Jennifer Murray said the gathering gave members in the region a chance to develop new skill sets. "The workshop gave members an opportunity to connect in a way they may not have had before, strengthening relationships they can bring back to their workplaces and locals," Murray said.¹

Unifor Ontario Regional Director Samia Hashi said shared challenges cut across different workplaces. "When we come together, we realize that while our workplaces may be different, many of the challenges we face are the same," Hashi said. "Sharing our experiences helps us learn from one another, strengthen our solidarity and build the collective power we need to fight for better working conditions."¹

Health care and social services workers across Canada continue to face significant challenges, including staffing shortages, burnout and the growing threat of privatization, the union said. The conference provided an opportunity for members to discuss shared challenges, exchange ideas and learn from one another's experiences.¹

The sector is supported by a team of staff under the leadership of Kelly-Anne Orr, assistant to the national president, and Kellee Jansen, health care director, according to Unifor. Unifor's health care and social services membership includes workers in hospitals, long-term care homes, retirement homes, home care, emergency medical services and community-based social services.¹