EHRC publishes Returnship Toolkit to help welcome back caregivers

April 16, 2022 – Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC) has published the “Returnship Toolkit”: a guide for electricity sector employers to help them with the return of individuals back into the workforce after a period of absence due to child or elder care responsibilities.

“From powering our homes to schools and hospitals, workers in Ontario’s electrical sector keep our province running and the lights on,” said Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development. “That is why our government is supporting this toolkit, which will help hundreds of people in this critical sector as they return to work following a leave of absence.”

The pandemic has affected all Canadian workers, but women have been disproportionately affected, notes EHRC, and their economic recovery slower. This new compendium of resources “provides actionable ways for employers to connect, recruit and retain this audience as they balance their caregiving responsibilities”.

“Our toolkit offers employers information on engaging with an often-overlooked demographic and works toward a gender-balanced industry,” said Michelle Branigan, EHRC’s CEO.

The Returnship Toolkit was guided by an advisory committee of industry experts who, according to EHRC, are committed to using it in their own organizations. It is available on EHRC’s website, and can be used by organizations to create pathways for individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.

“Human resources professionals, leadership, hiring managers and those involved in acquiring and retaining talent from a returnee population will find valuable and practical information to support their strategies,” adds EHRC.

This toolkit is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training, and Skills Development.

Electricity Human Resources Canada is a trusted source of objective human resources information and tools for the Canadian electricity industry.