I have been a dedicated worker with BC Transit Union 114  contributing to my community and the economy. Unfortunately, an unforeseen work-related incident left me in need of long-term disability support from WorkSafe BC. Throughout my recovery, I've been grateful for their assistance, yet my long-term disability awardment at the end of my claim only accounts for less than 20% of my current gross earnings If I were driving. This abrupt financial strain not only affects my ability to provide for myself but also jeopardizes my family's future.

If at the end of your claim you're unable to find work due to injury there is no safeguard in place for the worker to get funds to bridge the gap between the loss of income and the potential appeals, leaving most workers destitute. If at the end of these appeals nothing happens you're left with very little money to live on if you can't find work or if you're injured depriving you a livable income.  The formula that works safe BC has in place to determine your wages is flawed. As I was injured and my workmates were getting raises over the period of time my wages and work safe did not reflect this, The wage was taken while I was injured and does not reflect cost of living increases over the years, my fellow workers have gained an extra $5 an hour, wages that are based on your net income do not reflect your tax bracket and can vary from person to person. there's no safeguard in place for workers that can no longer enter the work for us because of injuries that are ongoing once your claim is over, It takes at least three to five months or more to get a decision then you're denied and you have to wait another 5 months for your appeal to be decided, during this time many workers have lost their lives savings and or their home, job, and sometimes have to relocate or find another job outside of there occupation in pain.

Currently, when WorkSafe BC claimants reach the end of their claim period and cannot find suitable work due to ongoing disabilities, they are left with inadequate financial support. This gap forces many of us to face a dire struggle to make ends meet. It's a reality that leaves us living well below the poverty line, disregarding years of hard work and contributions to the workforce and economy.

The current system does not reflect the living costs of British Columbia, where housing, healthcare, and everyday expenses are increasingly becoming unaffordable.

According to All government sources the cost of living in BC continues to rise, leaving those of us on limited incomes struggling to manage.

It is crucial for WorkSafe BC to review and amend their policies to ensure claimants receive adequate support, equivalent to a living wage, beyond the termination of their claims, especially when re-employment is not immediately feasible. By updating their policy, WorkSafe BC can not only enhance the quality of life for its claimants but also make a significant impact on reducing poverty levels across the province.

We urge policymakers, civic leaders, and WorkSafe BC administrators to develop and implement a revised financial assistance strategy. This strategy should supplement the income of long-term disabled claimants to align with the current living standards of BC, bridging the gap between claim cessation and gainful employment.

Sign this petition to call for urgent changes that ensure injured workers are not left without the means to live a dignified life. Together, let's advocate for fair treatment and financial security for all WorkSafe BC claimants and the call for change to the legislation.

Thanks

Michael