Health of the newcomer-serving sector in the PNT region: A survey of front-line workers in Alberta, Manitoba & Saskatchewan
Abstract
The objective of the Health of the Sector (HOTS) survey is to identify challenges, strengths, and opportunities through a quantitative survey. Akin to other employee surveys, the primary objective of the HOTS survey is to evaluate and accordingly improve staff workplace-related experience in order to deliver quality settlement and integration services across the PNT region. By improving the satisfaction of front-line employees, settlement agencies will retain their competent and experienced employees and promote and encourage their long-term commitment to the organization.
Notes
Key findings
Frontline staff are generally very interested in their work helping newcomers, and are generally very gracious to be able to help
Around half of participants indicated they are happy with their compensation for working, but some participants indicated that they have to look for new employment due to inability to receive compensation in accordance with skills and certifications; the gender pay gap is an additional level to this
Participants working in the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) indicated large amounts of unpaid work, such as preparation for classes, and large administrative duties, but little benefits due to low paid hours, as well as lay-offs
Low levels of benefits in the non-profit sector may discourage some frontline workers from maintaining their job, and women were more likely to receive less benefits due to working part time positions
Many participants were satisfied with the diversity and inclusion policies, but also believed that mental health supports are an area of potential improvement
Many participants indicated difficulty in being able to advance their career, as well as worries surrounding job stability
Key populations
Front-line workers of agencies serving newcomers
Key recommendations
Long term funding, as well as stability, in order to have job security in workers, as well as benefits, such as RRSP contributions, and stable salaries
Increase training and professional development, as well as increasing mental health supports
Increase data collection for pay, DEI, as well as work policies, in order to identify any disparities
Find new funding opportunities for the sector, and collaboration with other agencies to apply for funding
Increase mental health supports for workers, as well as securing this in organization policies
Increase diversity in higher level executive positions
Community organizations
AAISA
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Gaps identified
Integration timeline
Location
Alberta
Manitoba
Saskatchewan
Open-access – Yes