Government bonuses of up to $1,500 for support workers who serve children, youth and adults with disabilities is very much welcomed by the sector to address labour market pressures.
Earlier this week, the province announced that agencies contracted by Children and Youth Services and by Seniors and Community Supports will receive two lump sums of $1,500 per full-time equivalent employee, with pro-rated amounts for part-time employees.
Lynda Olson, executive director of Cosmos Community Supports Services Ltd. in Red Deer, said the bonuses will certainly help her employees.
“We’re very excited about it. This sector doesn’t pay particularly well so this helps everybody,” Olson said on Friday.
Agencies will receive the money in September 2011 and April 2012.
Olson said the sector is still hopeful to negotiate more money for workers. Alberta is going to be facing a bigger labour shortage in the future so agencies are looking at ways to improve salaries.
She said Cosmos is fortunate it has been able to retain staff and has about 34 full-time employees helping the developmentally disabled prepare for the workforce and work with employers, and to connect the disabled to volunteer and recreational activities within the community.
The province is spending $26.4 million each year on the bonus program.
szielinski@www.reddeeradvocate.com