Office of the Worker Counsellor

For workers in Nova Scotia facing challenges with the workers’ compensation system or occupational health and safety issues, the Office of the Worker Counsellor provides an invaluable service. The program offers free information, advice, and support - a crucial resource for those navigating the system’s complex processes and fighting for their rights.

Since 2009, the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour has received funding from the Workers’ Compensation Board to operate the program. Over the years, the Office has earned an excellent reputation for professionalism, balance, and fairness.

At the core of the Office of the Worker Counsellor’s mission is a deep commitment to advocating for injured and vulnerable workers. Whether it’s guiding someone through the WCB claim process, helping them understand their right to refuse unsafe work, or teaching free courses across the province, Counsellors are steadfast allies. Their expertise empowers workers to exercise their right to be safe at work and to access fair benefits if the safety system fails.  

But the role of the Office of the Worker Counsellor  goes beyond individual cases. They are also tireless champions for systemic change, working to improve the overall workers’ compensation and occupational health and safety systems. By maintaining relationships with key government bodies and labor organizations, they work to ensure the perspectives and experiences of workers are heard.

Workers’ compensation and workplace safety are not just administrative hurdles - they profoundly impact  the lives and livelihoods of Nova Scotians. When someone is injured on the job, the consequences can be devastating, both financially and emotionally. A large proportion of workers don’t receive any education on the complexities of workers’ compensation until after  they’re injured. At that point, navigating the systems  can feel almost impossible.

That’s where the Office of the Worker Counsellor steps in. Through educational workshops and customized presentations, they equip workers and their representatives with the knowledge to navigate complex systems and assert their rights. And by elevating workers’ stories, they strive to give a voice to those who may otherwise be marginalized or overlooked.

Some of the most vulnerable workers are those struggling with psychological injuries. For too long, the system  ignored the consequences of work on mental health and discriminated against those who were emotionally scarred by events at work. Together with the labour movement, the Office of the Worker Counsellor fought for change to these unfair laws. Together, they were successful.

On September 1, 2024 workers who develop psychological injuries because of cumulative stress in the workplace,  such as harassment and bullying, became eligible for benefits. These changes weren’t perfect, and it remains  to be seen how much of a impact they’ll have on the lives of workers, but this is a step forward.  

The Office has made progress in health and safety, too. Next year, starting on September 1, 2025, employers will be responsible for ensuring their employees are safe from psychological hazards in the same way they must protect workers from physical hazards.  

Positive change in the law is meaningless if there is no one to ensure the law is enforced. It’s up to every worker to demand a safe workplace and fair compensation.  

In a world that can sometimes feel stacked against workers, the Office of the Worker Counsellor stands for fairness, dignity, and justice. Through unwavering advocacy and dedicated service, the Office of the Worker Counsellor ensures that no worker has to face workplace challenges alone. If you or anyone you know has questions or needs help  with workplace safety or compensation issues, the Office of the Worker Counsellor is here. The services are free and confidential and are provided by a professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate team.

Don’t hesitate to reach out at 902-455-5455, 1-877-220-2722, or info [at] workercounsellor.ca.