Unifor Local 2488 is leading the charge to prioritize mental health resources for employees at Native Child and Family Services of Toronto (NCFST), recognizing the immense emotional and psychological challenges faced by workers in this demanding field. The union is calling for expanded mental health services and comprehensive support to ensure that those caring for Indigenous children and families are themselves supported.
The work done by employees at Native Child and Family Services of Toronto is invaluable. These workers are on the frontlines, providing critical services that include child protection, family counseling, mental health support, and cultural programming for Indigenous children and families in the community. However, the nature of their work often exposes them to high levels of stress, emotional fatigue, and, in many cases, trauma. This has led Unifor Local 2488 to advocate strongly for better mental health provisions to protect and sustain these dedicated employees.
“The emotional toll that this kind of work takes on people cannot be overstated,” said a Unifor Local 2488 representative. “Our members are dealing with some of the most vulnerable populations in the city. They carry the weight of ensuring the safety and well-being of children and families who are facing severe socio-economic and emotional challenges. We cannot allow the mental health of these workers to be overlooked any longer.”
Unifor Local 2488’s advocacy comes in response to growing concerns raised by workers about burnout, compassion fatigue, and the high-pressure nature of their roles. Employees have reported feeling emotionally drained due to the difficult situations they manage daily, from supporting families in crisis to addressing complex cases involving trauma and abuse. Many have voiced that while they are passionate about their work, the lack of mental health resources is leaving them vulnerable to chronic stress and, in some cases, mental health deterioration.
“We love what we do, and we are committed to supporting Indigenous children and families, but it’s incredibly challenging work,” shared one NCFST worker. “We deal with crisis situations regularly, and while we’re trained to handle it, we also need to care for ourselves. It’s becoming clear that more mental health resources are not just a luxury—they’re a necessity.”
Unifor Local 2488 has been working closely with NCFST leadership to ensure that mental health support is not only discussed but is a top priority in ongoing and future negotiations. The union is pushing for a comprehensive mental health package that includes access to professional counseling services, more paid mental health days, and regular wellness programs designed to support employees’ emotional well-being. They are also advocating for on-site support resources that would allow workers to seek help immediately in the wake of particularly distressing cases.
“One of the key issues we’re addressing is the stigma that still surrounds mental health, especially in the workplace,” said the union spokesperson. “We want to create an environment where workers feel safe and supported in seeking help without fear of judgment or repercussions. Mental health is health, and it needs to be treated with the same seriousness as physical well-being.”
Another critical element of Unifor Local 2488’s advocacy is the call for increased training on mental health management for both employees and management. This includes providing workers with the tools to recognize the early signs of burnout and compassion fatigue, as well as educating supervisors on how to effectively support their teams when mental health challenges arise. By fostering a workplace culture where mental health is openly discussed and supported, the union hopes to create a more sustainable work environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally.
The union has also emphasized that investing in mental health support is not only beneficial for employees but also for the organization and the communities they serve. “When workers are supported, they can perform their jobs more effectively. It’s a win-win situation,” explained a Unifor Local 2488 representative. “If we want to provide the best care and services for Indigenous children and families, we have to start by taking care of the people who are delivering those services.”
Unifor Local 2488 is also seeking to engage policymakers and external mental health organizations to create a broader conversation about the importance of mental health support for frontline workers, especially in social service sectors like Native Child and Family Services. The union is exploring partnerships with mental health advocacy groups to provide additional resources and support, ensuring that this issue receives the attention it deserves.
As the push for better mental health provisions continues, employees at NCFST have expressed hope that these changes will lead to a more balanced and supportive workplace. “We need to know that our well-being matters,” said one worker. “We’re committed to helping our communities, but we can’t do it alone. With the right mental health resources in place, we can continue doing this important work without sacrificing our own health.”
Through its continued efforts, Unifor Local 2488 is demonstrating that it stands by its members, not just in negotiating wages and benefits, but in ensuring that their overall well-being is prioritized. The union’s focus on mental health advocacy sets a precedent for how other sectors can approach employee wellness, particularly in roles where workers face high levels of stress and emotional demands.
“This is about creating a sustainable future for both the workers and the communities they serve,” concluded the union spokesperson. “Mental health is at the core of that sustainability, and we won’t stop fighting until our members have the resources and support they need to keep doing their incredible work.”
Unifor Local 2488 continues to lead the way in protecting and supporting its members, reinforcing the belief that when workers are cared for, the entire community benefits. Through advocacy, negotiation, and collaboration, the union is working to ensure that mental health support becomes a fundamental part of the workplace culture at Native Child and Family Services of Toronto.
