Like many other organizations worldwide, we have been planning for a safe re-opening of our offices while also following health and safety measures in line with public health guidance in all our lodges and through our transportation program.
Our commitment to the health and well-being of our staff, volunteers and the people we serve is unwavering. We know we must do everything we can to protect one another, those facing cancer and our broader communities. Quite simply, vaccination is the most effective tool to reduce the risk of COVID-19. That’s why we are implementing a mandatory vaccination policy that will require all staff and certain volunteers to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
You can read our full policy here.
Starting on November 8, all our employees as well as volunteers who work in our offices and lodges or with clients through our transportation program will need to be fully vaccinated.
We know that people may face barriers to vaccination, be exempt for medical or religious reasons or be hesitant to receive the vaccine. We are here to support our staff and volunteers through the vaccination process or to create accommodation plans for medical or religious exemptions as applicable, on a case-by-case basis.
In a recent survey conducted by the Canadian Cancer Society in August 2021, we learned that about 92% of respondents agree that it should be mandatory for health care workers who come into contact with people living with cancer to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. As the voice for Canadians who care about cancer, and as leaders in the health care sector who provide support to vulnerable clients, we have an obligation to hold ourselves to that same standard of care.
The COVID-19 vaccine is a critical part of ending the pandemic and keeping people healthy and safe. This policy, combined with other health and safety measures, is the best way to ensure we are fulfilling our duty to keep our community safe.