Health and social service workers who deliver in-person, front-line care to some of B.C.’s most vulnerable people will receive a financial boost through temporary COVID-19 pandemic pay.
The temporary pandemic pay will support people working on the front lines in B.C.’s health-care system, social services and corrections.
More than 250,000 eligible front-line workers will receive temporary pandemic pay, a lump-sum payment of about $4 per hour for a 16-week period, retroactive from March 15, 2020.
Eligible workers will receive the payment directly through their employer and do not need to apply.
From care aids to domestic violence workers, to people working in corrections and others delivering essential addictions and mental health supports will be eligible.
The full list of those who are eligible can be seen here.
“Temporary pandemic pay recognizes all that our health and social service workers do to help keep people healthy, our communities running and deliver important care and services to the most vulnerable during this challenging time,” said Carole James, Minister of Finance.
Temporary pandemic pay is part of government’s $5-billion COVID-19 Action Plan to provide relief to people, communities and businesses in British Columbia.
