The Provincial Health Officer (PHO) has issued an Order requiring staff of CLBC funded service providers to confirm that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, or have an exemption, by January 14, 2022. You can read the PHO order here.
The Order applies to staff of CLBC funded agencies, person centred societies and microboards as well as staff hired by individuals and families who have direct funding, including direct-funded respite contracts.
Under the Order, the Provincial Health Officer has determined that persons receiving CLBC services in these settings often have health conditions or compromised immune systems which make them particularly vulnerable to severe illness and death from COVID-19 and that vaccination is the single most important preventive measure that can be taken to protect those we serve, other staff and caregivers.
The Order does not apply to home sharing providers where support is provided in a private residence.
CLBC service providers must now prepare and implement plans and cannot permit staff to work unless they comply with the following:
- December 3, 2021: Current staff members must report their vaccination status to their employer.
- December 10, 2021: Previously unvaccinated staff members must have received and prove that they have had their first dose or have an exemption.
- January 14, 2022: Unvaccinated staff members must have received and prove that they have had their second dose before this date.
CLBC is compiling further information, along with an email address to send questions, and will post this on our website by end of day Tuesday, November 23, 2021. CLBC has convened a working group with service providers to provide policy guidance related to any service impacts.
