Canterbury Place employees vote yes to gain the Union advantage
September 9, 2020
Employees at the Canterbury Place Retirement Residence in North York are the newest members of UFCW Local 175.
Some of the workers at Canterbury Place who approached our Organizers recognized the benefits of belonging to a Union as they knew of other health care workers who were already members. Despite having a workers’ association previously, the employer did not act upon most proposals put forth by the workers.
Wages at this retirement home lag behind what their counterparts in homes unionized with UFCW Local 175. Another major concern for employees at Canterbury Place was seniority and hours of work. Even employees with significant lengths of service could receive the worst shifts if, for example, they took a leave of absence because they would lose their competitive number of hours.
The members at Canterbury Place look forward to putting forth proposals to improve the workplace in their first collective agreement. This includes better wages, benefits, health and safety language, and a grievance procedure. In addition, the members hope to work toward better seniority rules, establishing firm job duties, holding management accountable to its commitments, and of course, gaining job security through their Union membership. Learn more about why health care workers join our Union.
The new bargaining unit is comprised of about 60 employees at Canterbury Place who work as:
- Health and wellness attendants;
- Dining Services attendants;
- Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs);
- Cooks;
- Unlicensed Care Providers (UCPs) and Team Leaders;
- Reception staff;
- Housekeepers;
- Dishwashers;
- Life Enrichment Assistants;
- Maintenance; and,
- Temporary workers.
Read more stories of organizing victories celebrated by workers across Ontario!
Curious about what health care workers can negotiate for when they’re part of a Union? Check out some of the recently ratified UFCW 175 collective agreements in the industry.
Plus, learn more about how to Join our Union. You can also reach out to our Organizers directly at organizing@ufcw175.com or 1-800-565-8329.