Atira Responds to Government Announcement on Transition to Health Sector
For Immediate Release
June 13, 2025
Atira Responds to Government Announcement on Transition to Health Sector
Vancouver, BC – The Province of British Columbia has formally announced that select organizations providing supportive housing—including Atira—will be transitioned from the Community Social Services Employers’ Association (CSSEA) to the Health Employers Association of BC (HEABC). This change will align supportive housing services more closely with the health sector and is expected to take effect through an Order in Council by provincial cabinet early this summer.
As one of the agencies affected, Atira Women’s Resource Society is working closely with government and union partners to support a smooth and transparent transition for staff, residents, and community stakeholders.
“This shift reflects the evolving nature of supportive housing, and the critical role frontline staff play in this essential work. While the transition will bring change, our commitment to advocating for and supporting both our staff and residents remains steadfast. There are still many unknowns, and we are committed to keeping our employees informed and working in partnership with the union as this process unfolds.” Adrienne Dalla-Longa- Acting Executive Director, People & Culture, Atira
Key Highlights of the Transition:
- Continued Operations: Atira will continue to apply its current CSSEA collective agreement and 2024 MOAs, including Temporary Market Adjustments (TMAs), until directed otherwise by HEABC.
- Union Realignment: Most unionized staff are expected to be transferred to the Community (Health) Bargaining Association (CBA), with specialized roles potentially falling under the Nurses’ Bargaining Association (NBA) or the Health Science Professionals Bargaining Association (HSPBA).
- New Collective Agreements: Following the transfer, CSSEA agreements will be phased out. HEABC will oversee discussions with unions to implement the applicable health sector collective agreements.
- Funding and Support: The Ministry of Finance, BC Housing, and other ministries have been advised and are expected to provide funding to address the increased costs. Atira will be engaging directly with its funders to adjust service contracts as needed.
- Health & Welfare Benefits: Atira will transition to the benefit plans offered through the Healthcare Benefit Trust (HBT) and relevant Joint Benefit Trusts (JBTs). Employers are advised not to extend existing benefit contracts, as new participation will be required under the health sector agreements.
- Job Evaluations & Compensation: Job evaluations for unionized roles will be led by HEABC under the appropriate plans. Management and excluded positions will follow the health sector’s evaluation framework.
Our Commitment
Atira remains deeply committed to its mission of supporting women and gender-diverse people affected by violence, poverty, and systemic barriers. The work our staff do is both challenging and essential—they support individuals made vulnerable by the impacts of trauma and abuse. Ensuring the staff are safe, supported, and fairly compensated is a top priority. As we move through this transition, we will continue to advocate for the needs of our employees and uphold the quality of care and housing for the people we serve.
“We welcome opportunities to work alongside partners in the health sector who understand the value of supportive housing as part of the broader continuum of care,” said Donna-Lynn-Atira’s CEO. “Atira is committed to working collaboratively with HEABC, unions, and funders to ensure our employees are supported, respected, and equipped to continue their critical work.”
Media Contact:
Tannaz Alesafar, Communications Director
Atira Women’s Resource Society
Phone: (604) 830-1923
Email: tannaz_alesafar@atira.bc.ca