With nearly 25% of Canadians over the age of 30 providing care for a loved one — and more than 1/3 expecting to in the future — balancing work and caregiving has become increasingly common.
For those who question whether their employer will accommodate work schedules in the face of elder care pressures, understanding your rights and the steps you can take can make all the difference in managing these dual responsibilities.
Here are some steps you can take if your employer isn’t willing to adjust your work schedule:
1. Understand your rights: In Ontario, under the Ontario Human Rights Code, you have the right to seek accommodation for caregiving responsibilities. Employers are required to accommodate to the point of “undue hardship.”
2. Document your request: Always make your accommodation request in writing, explaining the specific accommodations you need (e.g., schedule adjustments to take your mother to medical appointments). Ideally you will do this with the assistance of a lawyer who can help craft a request in a manner that is difficult for your employer to legally refuse.
3. File a complaint: If your employer refuses to provide reasonable accommodation, you can file a claim with the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal which will assess if the refusal violates your rights.
4. Consult a lawyer: Seeking legal advice can help you understand your options and how to proceed at any of the above stages, especially if you’re facing discrimination or retaliation at work.
You don’t have to face this alone. Contact us to discuss how we can help you navigate this situation and protect your rights.
