Over 30 Workplace Accommodation Grievances Resolved!
Last year, Telus rolled out a Return to Office policy impacting nearly 1,000 Customer Experience workers — and redeployed over 150 Ontario members to Quebec. While USW Local 1944 wasn’t successful in overturning the Return to Office or stopping the redeployments, we were able to delay it for several months. We fought hard, but were ultimately unsuccessful at arbitration.
However, through expedited arbitration and mediation, Local Union Representatives, Alexander Livingston and Steve McWhirter resolved over 30 workplace accommodation grievances. These cases involved members whose medical or family-related accommodation requests were denied — including requests for remote work, modified duties, and flexibility to care for dependents.
Many were resolved before formal hearings thanks to proactive casework and early intervention.
The final cases were settled through mediation, including complex files involving family status accommodation, reaffirming our members’ rights to balance work and caregiving responsibilities.
Why This Matters:
These wins send a powerful message: accommodation matters. Equity and accessibility in the workplace are non-negotiable, and we will fight for every member’s right to be treated with dignity and fairness.
What’s Next:
If your workplace accommodation request has been denied or ignored, contact your Shop Steward or Local Union Representative. Your Union is here to fight with you — and for you.
What is Workplace Accommodation?
It’s a process that allows employees to request adjustments or support related to a prohibited ground of discrimination’, generally Disability or Family Status
How to Request Accommodation:
Submit a Written Request: Complete the Workplace Accommodation Request Form which is found on the Telus intranet at go/accommodation. This form should be submitted in writing to your manager.
Notify the Union: Please choose to provide a copy of your request to the Union or engage us at any point in the process. It’s crucial in order for us to track, assist with, and ensure that accommodation is appropriately handled. Telus is obligated to seek our input on accommodations, but this only applies if the Union is notified by the member.
Please CC accommodation@usw1944.ca
Examples of Accommodations:
Flexible work schedule or location (including Work From Home) to accommodate a medical condition or family caregiving obligations.
Modified job duties or equipment
Accessible workspaces
Any other amended working conditions as recommended by your medical practitioner
Find a Shop Steward on the Digital Union Board
Find your Local Union Representative here
In Solidarity,
Jenn Turner
Vice President
USW Local 1944