Women’s Advocate Program

OSSTF/FEESO believes that the union has a role to play in assisting members who are experiencing workplace sexual harassment, intimate violence, and abuse. Therefore, OSSTF/FEESO is demonstrating this commitment by announcing our new Women’s Advocate Program.

Women’s Advocates are not counselors. They are specially trained volunteers who can provide support for women who may need assistance accessing workplace supports and community services or resources.

The Women’s Advocate Program was developed to provide support to members experiencing or impacted by domestic violence. OSSTF/FEESO knows, in addition to employers, unions have a role to play in protecting and supporting women in need. OSSTF/FEESO has trained between 2 to 5 Women’s Advocates to work in every district. Two videos were created to assist Districts in educating their executives and members on the Women’s Advocate program, what role advocates play in the district, and to provide helpful hints to assist District and Bargaining Unit officers in setting up a successful Women’s Advocate program in their District.

What Do Women’s Advocates Do?
– Provide a space for other workers to talk.
– They listen, believe, validate, and assist.
-Are empathetic, non-judgmental, discreet, and confidential.
– Are educated on issues of gender-based violence and the impacts on workers and their lives.
A video overview of the OSSTF/FEESO Women’s Advocate Program

Please reach out in an initial email – you can request a phone conversation at that point if it is more to your comfort. You may also reach out to Deborah Bevan, administrative assistant at the OSSTF office to take a message for you to get a call back for the Women’s Advocate program (705 748 3444)

Resource: how Friends, Neighbours and Family members can help.

Resource: See it, Name it, Check it.

Resource: Links to Agencies

Resource: What is the Women’s Advocate program