Ottawa

๐Ÿ’ผ

Employment Support

Resources for job search assistance, employment training, and workplace integration services.

Sections

1. Types of Employment Support Benefits Available in Ottawa

a. Employment Insurance (EI) Benefits

Employment Insurance (EI) is a federal program that provides temporary financial assistance to individuals who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own (e.g., layoffs) and are actively seeking work. There are several types of EI benefits:

  • Regular Benefits: For those who are unemployed and looking for work.
  • Sickness Benefits: For individuals unable to work due to illness, injury, or quarantine.
  • Maternity and Parental Benefits: For parents taking time off to care for a newborn or newly adopted child.
  • Caregiving Benefits: For those providing care to a critically ill or injured family member.
  • EI for Self-Employed Individuals: Available to self-employed workers who have opted into the EI program.

Cost: EI is funded through payroll deductions from employees and employers. There is no additional cost to access these benefits if you qualify.

How to Access:

  • Apply online through the Service Canada website: EI Benefits Application.
  • Visit a Service Canada Centre in Ottawa for in-person assistance. Locations include:
    • Service Canada Centre - Ottawa Downtown: 240 Sparks Street, Ottawa, ON.
    • Service Canada Centre - Nepean: 100 Constellation Drive, Nepean, ON.

Eligibility:

  • You must have worked a certain number of insurable hours in the past 52 weeks.
  • You must be actively seeking work (for regular benefits).

b. Ontario Works (OW)

Ontario Works is a provincial program that provides financial assistance and employment support to individuals and families in financial need. It includes:

  • Basic Financial Assistance: Covers essential needs like food, clothing, and shelter.
  • Employment Assistance: Helps with job search, training, and skill development.

Cost: Free for eligible individuals.

How to Access:

  • Apply online through the Ontario Works Application portal: Ontario Works Application.
  • Contact the City of Ottawa Employment and Social Services:
    • Main Office: 100 Constellation Drive, Nepean, ON.
    • Phone: 3-1-1 (ask for Employment and Social Services).

Eligibility:

  • You must demonstrate financial need.
  • You must participate in employment-related activities unless exempt.

c. Canada Child Benefit (CCB)

While not strictly an employment benefit, the CCB provides financial support to families with children under 18. This can help working parents manage childcare costs, which is often a barrier to employment.

Cost: Free for eligible families.

How to Access:

  • Apply through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA): Canada Child Benefit.
  • Assistance is available at local Service Canada Centres.

Eligibility:

  • Must be a resident of Canada.
  • Must have children under 18 and meet income requirements.

d. Workerโ€™s Compensation (WSIB)

If you are injured or become ill due to your job, you may be eligible for benefits through the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB). This includes wage replacement, medical coverage, and return-to-work support.

Cost: Free for employees; employers pay into the WSIB system.

How to Access:

  • Report your injury or illness to your employer and file a claim with WSIB: WSIB Claims.
  • Contact the WSIB office in Ottawa for assistance.

Eligibility:

  • Must be employed in a job covered by WSIB.
  • Must have a work-related injury or illness.

e. Employment Support for Newcomers

Ottawa has specific programs to help newcomers integrate into the workforce, including:

  • Language Training: Free English or French classes through the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program.
  • Job Search Workshops: Programs to help newcomers understand the Canadian job market, write resumes, and prepare for interviews.
  • Bridge Training Programs: Help internationally trained professionals gain Canadian credentials or work experience.

Cost: Free for eligible newcomers.

How to Access:

  • Contact Immigrant Services Ottawa (ISO): Immigrant Services Ottawa.
  • Visit the YMCA-YWCA Newcomer Information Centre: 180 Argyle Avenue, Ottawa, ON.

2. Key Organizations and Resources in Ottawa

a. Employment Ontario

Employment Ontario provides free services to help individuals find jobs, upgrade skills, and access training programs. Services include career counseling, resume writing, and job placement.

How to Access:

  • Visit the Employment Ontario Ottawa Centre: 351 Preston Street, Ottawa, ON.
  • Use the online locator to find a service provider near you: Employment Ontario Services.

b. City of Ottawa Employment and Social Services

The City of Ottawa offers a range of employment support programs, including financial assistance, job search help, and training opportunities.

How to Access:

  • Visit the City of Ottawa Employment and Social Services office: 100 Constellation Drive, Nepean, ON.
  • Call 3-1-1 for more information.

c. Local Non-Profit Organizations

Several non-profits in Ottawa provide employment support, particularly for marginalized groups:

  • World Skills Employment Centre: Specializes in helping immigrants and refugees find work.
    • Address: 219 Argyle Avenue, Ottawa, ON.
    • Website: World Skills.
  • Hire Immigrants Ottawa (HIO): Works with employers to integrate immigrants into the workforce.

3. Important Local Considerations

  • Bilingualism: Ottawa is a bilingual city (English and French). Many jobs require proficiency in both languages, so consider taking language classes if needed.
  • Networking: Networking is crucial in the Canadian job market. Attend local job fairs, workshops, and community events to build connections.
  • Credential Recognition: If you are an internationally trained professional, you may need to have your credentials assessed and recognized in Canada. Contact World Education Services (WES) or a similar organization for credential evaluation.

4. Summary of Steps to Access Employment Benefits in Ottawa

  1. Determine your eligibility for federal (EI), provincial (Ontario Works), or local programs.
  2. Apply online or visit a local office for assistance.
  3. Take advantage of free employment services, such as those offered by Employment Ontario or local non-profits.
  4. If you are a newcomer, connect with immigrant-focused organizations for tailored support.
  5. Consider upgrading your skills or credentials to improve your employability.

If you need further assistance or have specific questions, feel free to ask!