Highlights from this week
- Annual Mandatory Policy Attestation – DUE today!
- HR Contacts and FAQ
- Protect Your Back: Safe Lifting Tips You Need to Know
- Get in the Habit! 10 Everyday Habits to Help You Feel Your Best
- Complete Your Workplace Violence and Harassment Training Today!
- Financial Wellness: Exploring Investment Options
- High Fives
- Ask Us Anything
Annual Mandatory Policy Attestation Due Today!
Annual Policy Attestations are due by 28 February 2025 for all Circle of Care staff. To complete the form, scan the QR Code OR click on the link below.
PSWs will be paid for 15 minutes of ‘training’ for completing the form. This will appear on your paystub after the deadline.
Reminders and Announcements
HR Contacts and FAQ
Do you have questions for our HR team?
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page! It includes answers to many of the most common questions and concerns that employees have for us.
You can also find contact information for HR and other teams, including Recruitment and referrals, Payroll, and Learning and development.
Health and Safety
Protect Your Back: Safe Lifting Tips You Need to Know
Improper lifting techniques can lead to back injuries, muscle strains, and long-term pain. Follow these simple, effective lifting techniques to stay safe and injury-free
- Use Assistive Equipment Whenever Possible
- Before lifting, check if you can use mechanical aids like hoists, lift trucks, or dollies to reduce strain on your body.
- Plan Before You Lift
- Position your feet shoulder-width apart for stability.
- Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes to avoid falls.
- Test the weight of the object before lifting – don’t lift beyond your comfort.
- Use Proper Lifting Form
- Grasp with both hands – keep the object stable.
- Keep the load close to your body and centered for better control.
- Slide or pull the object toward your stomach before lifting – this helps activate your core muscles.
- Maintain a Safe Posture
- Hold the load between your shoulder and knee height – avoid lifting above your head or below your knees.
- Keep your back straight – don’t twist while lifting.
- If you need to turn, step or pivot instead of twisting your body.
- Bend Your Knees – Not Your Back!
- Do not bend at the waist to lift objects from the floor.
- Instead, bend your knees and use your legs to push up.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Don’t Bend at the Waist – Always squat instead of bending over.
- Don’t Lift Above Shoulder Level – Use a step stool or ask for help.
- Don’t Overreach – Keep the object within arm’s length.
Why It Matters
- Reduces back and muscle strain
- Prevents injuries that could lead to time off work
- Keeps you strong, safe, and able to provide the best care to your clients
Wellness at Work
Get in the Habit: 10 Everyday Habits to Help You Feel Your Best
Life can be busy, but establishing healthy habits can make a big difference. Practice these small but powerful habits every day to help you stay strong and feel your best!
Learning in Action
Reminder: Mandatory Workplace Violence and Harassment Training
Circle of Care is committed to preventing workplace violence and harassment and ensuring a safe environment for all employees.
All employees are required to complete the mandatory Workplace Violence and Harassment e-learning module in Dayforce by February 5, 2025.
All employees that complete the training will receive 30 minutes of paid training time, which will be paid out in March.
Financial Wellness: Exploring Investment Options
It can be hard to save when your budget is tight, but every little bit counts! Investing wisely can help ensure your long-term financial well-being by building wealth over time.
Some important things to consider when invessting:
- Diversify Your Portfolio: Spread investments across various asset classes.
- Understand Risk Tolerance: Assess your risk tolerance for a balanced investment mix.
- Take Advantage of Retirement Accounts: Contribute to RRSPs or open a TFSA for tax advantages.
- Educate Yourself: Stay informed about investment strategies and market trends. Consult with a financial advisor for personalized guidance.
Financial Consumer Agency of Canada – Basics of Investing
The FCAC offers free information on the basics of investing, including regulations, decision-making factors, types of investments, costs, and avenues for filing complaints. Access this valuable resource to learn more about investing and plan your financial goals.
Community Corner
High Five!
A High Five for Karl Jacinto, Charmaine Gadea, William Chetta, Moneica Bennett, Vienpheth Hok, and Naomi Slutsky
I would like to thank you all for your assistance with our large mail out project for the PSW/Homemaker Holiday gift cards. Thanks for all your work to ensure our PSWs/Homemakers received this!
Kai Van Vugt
Has someone gone above and beyond at work? Give them a High Five!
The High Five program lets you publicly recognize staff members for their outstanding work. High Fives will be posted in your weekly Inside the Circle newsletter.
To give a high five, just click on the button below or use the link in the rotating banner on the Portal home page.
Please note: We do not accept anonymous submissions for this program. High Fives must be submitted by an individual person, whether they are a staff member or member of the community.
Ask Us Anything
Have a question? Submit your questions or feedback anonymously below!
Please note that it may take us longer to provide some answers. If your question hasn’t been answered yet, we will get back to you as soon as we can.