Join us on May 26^th as we host a session titled SafeCare BC- A Dialogue with the New Executive Director at this year’s BC Care Providers Association Annual Conference. Sit down with Executive Director, Jennifer Lyle as she shares SafeCare BC’s direction for the future and how it will help you and your organization.

Long term care has the highest rate of workplace injuries in the health care sector, and indeed of any industry in British Columbia. Consequently, long term care employers pay an average WorkSafeBC premium that is more than three times higher the health care sector average. Nearly $17 million in claim costs are paid annually in B.C., with over 2 600 long term care workers requiring time off work due to an injury.

In response to these challenges, SafeCare BC was established as an industry-funded independent health and safety association. SafeCare BC’s incorporation in January 2014 marked the culmination of efforts by numerous stakeholders, including WorkSafeBC, the BC Care Providers Association, the Denominational Health Association, care provider employers, and care provider employees and their representatives.  Our mandate is to reduce injuries among long term care workers through the provision of resources, education, and tools to its members.

Health and safety associations have proven successful in reducing workplace injuries, both in health care and in other industries. Safety initiatives by go2, the B.C. hospitality and tourism sector’s association, have demonstrated that industry-specific programming can cut injuries among participating employers by up to 68%. In Alberta, the long term care sector’s Continuing Care Safety Association reports an industry-wide reduction of 20% in workplace injuries and a 34% decrease in industry WCB premiums since its inception.

The success of these associations is founded in a collaborative, industry-focused approach. SafeCare BC will build on lessons learned from other associations to effectively address long term care sector needs. Executive Director, Jennifer Lyle, invites conference attendees to participate in a dialogue on SafeCare BC, to share their input, and to learn about the association’s next steps.

Initially a sold out session, a few spots have recently opened up. Don’t miss out on this highly anticipated session, and secure your spot today!

To register for the BCCPA Annual Conference, click here.

Project Coordinator- Wynona-Giannasi

In November of last year, SafeCare BC undertook a training needs assessment to determine the training and resource needs of the long term care sector in British Columbia. The scope of the assessment included all health and safety training, education and resources available to the long term care sector in British Columbia (Classification Unit 766011).

The methodology of the assessment included an online survey to a segmented target audience (employer/employee) and semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders.

After a terrific response, we are pleased to share insight into the final report in session at this years BCCPA Annual Conference. Get a first look at the results of the Training Needs Assessment in a workshop led by Project Coordinator, Wynona Giannasi of the Howegroup.

To sign up for the conference, please visit the BCCPA website.