Pierre had been injured at work and was pursuing a retraining program through WorkSafeBC. A few days before the program was to start, Pierre still had not received final approval or financial supports from WorkSafeBC as outlined in the program. Concerned that he would miss the start of the program, Pierre reached out to us.

Shortly after contacting us, and on the Friday before the training was set to start in a city 500km away from where he lived, Pierre received approval for the training. However, he was not provided with any explanation for what expenses would be covered nor was he given detailed information about his accommodation. Frustrated with the lack of information and worried that he would be required to share a room at a home-stay during the COVID-19 pandemic, Pierre contacted us.

Through our investigation we learned that the staff member responsible for Pierre’s file had not provided him with a reasonable explanation for what training was approved and what expenses would accompany the training. In our consultation with WorkSafeBC, it acknowledged the challenges Pierre was facing and committed to making sure that he was financially supported during the retraining program. WorkSafeBC also indicated that it would provide clearer and more timely communication.

At the same time the hotel and course issues were sorted out, WorkSafeBC provided Pierre with $1000 to cover initial expenses while they continued to assess his expenditure needs moving forward. This was a stop-gap measure until final decisions were made. While there were a few initial hiccups Pierre was provided acceptable accommodation and the necessary financial support to assist with his retraining program.