Homewood Health Resources Are In Place
In these unprecedented times, it is natural to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or uncertain about the world around us. The ongoing challenges we face can often make it seem like everything is turned upside down. However, we want you to know that you are not alone in navigating these difficulties.
The EAP – Peer Assistance Program, in collaboration with Homewood Health, is here to support you. Our dedicated team of peer assistants understands the unique struggles you may be facing and is committed to providing you with the necessary resources and assistance to help you through these challenging times.
We want to emphasize that our programs are a safe and unbiased place for you to seek support. Our sole purpose is to assist you in finding the resources you need to cope with any personal or professional challenges you may be experiencing.
Whether you are dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, financial concerns, or any other difficulties, our team is here to refer you to the appropriate resources. We have a wide range of services available, including counselling, therapy, workshops, and educational materials, all designed to help you navigate through these uncertain times.
Remember, reaching out for support is a sign of strength, and we encourage you to take advantage of the EAP-Peer Assistance Program. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to provide you with the guidance and support you need.
To access our services, please contact us by phone (see the numbers listed below), or by email at eap.accomponent.ca. All conversations and interactions with our team are strictly confidential, ensuring your privacy and peace of mind.
You can also directly call Homewood Health and speak with someone right away.
We understand that the world may feel upside down at the moment, but together, we can find stability and support.
Stay strong, stay connected, and remember that we are here for you!
In solidarity,
Your Peer Assistance Team
Vanessa Beaudoin-Grégoire
EAP – Peer Assistance Program
National Chair
YUL:
Office: 514-422-2041
Cell: 514-862-2041
YYZ:
Office: 905-676-2088
Cell: 647-802-0895
YYC:
Cell: 403-472-6868
YVR:
Office: 604-270-5703
Cell: 778-991-4112
EAP Update – October 2023
Greetings, Bonjour!
We are delighted to present our inaugural newsletter, uniting both our Mainline and Rouge Flight Attendants. This edition serves as an ideal platform to introduce ourselves and shed light on the array of services at your disposal through our EAP – Peer Assistance Program.
What is the EAP – Peer Assistance Program?
Simply put, the EAP – Peer Assistance Program is a free and confidential referral service available to employees, their families, and retirees. This program is a collaborative effort, sponsored jointly by the union and the company. The committee is supported by annually trained flight attendants who volunteer their time to assist their fellow cabin crew members with referrals to professional services.
I’ve come across EAP and EFAP on the company portal, but I’m curious to understand how they differ from the CUPE – Peer Assistance Program?
They are both workplace support programs, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics:
CUPE – Peer Assistance Program:
The Peer Assistance Program aims to provide a confidential, safe space for flight attendants to seek support. Trained Peer Coordinators, who are flight attendants themselves, offer emotional support, guidance, and connections to resources. The program focuses on promoting well-being among flight attendants by offering referrals to clinical professionals and community resources.
UBY – EFAP (Employee and Family Assistance Program):
Is a workplace benefit designed to provide confidential assistance to employees dealing with personal or work-related issues that may affect their well-being, job performance, or overall productivity. This is available through the UBY portal.
“In summary, EFAP services are comprehensive, professional support programs provided by the employer, while Peer Assistance Programs involve employees supporting each other through shared experiences.”
To reach us, please email us at eap@accomponent.ca.
YUL EAP Cell: 514-862-2041
YYZ EAP Cell: 647-802-0895
YYC EAP Cell: 403-472-6868
YVR EAP Cell: 778-991-4112
24/7 Emergency EAP Cell: 403-472-6868
Virtual Grief Support meeting
October 26, 2023 at 13:00 EDT
Are you grieving the death of a loved one? Do you have questions about grief? You are not alone.
On October 26, Sean McGuire will offer support and information about the grief journey. Grief can be unpredictable, confusing, sad and lonely. This support group is a confidential and safe place to learn more about grief and living with loss. We will limit the meeting to a small group in order to provide an opportunity to share and explore your journey with grief. The meeting will be available to Mainline and Rouge members.
This session will take place virtually via Zoom on Thursday, October 26 at 13:00 EDT.
To register please email Sean at seanthomas@rogers.com.
Sean is a Service Director based in YYZ who holds a master’s degree in Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy. Sean is also a member of the Ontario Association Mental Health Professionals. He has been facilitating grief support meetings at Air Canada for 15 years.
Virtual Recovery Support Meetings
Cabin Crew – Peer Recovery Program:
October 11, 2023 at 12:00 EDT
October 25, 2023 at 12:00 EDT
This meeting is designed to provide a safe and empathetic space for flight attendants to gather and openly discuss their experiences, challenges, and achievements in their journey towards recovery from substance use. Whether you are currently in recovery or simply curious, this gathering offers a supportive network of colleagues who comprehend the distinctive demands of our profession.
To register simply email: eap@accomponent.ca.
Virtual Support Meeting, with Dr. Johanna O’Flaherty:
October 10, 2023 at 12:00 EDT
Join Dr. O’Flaherty, a distinguished trauma psychologist, in a secure and nurturing virtual space where flight attendants unite to heal, connect, and thrive. Dr. O’Flaherty, an expert in trauma psychology, guides these support sessions with compassion and profound knowledge, fostering an environment where participants can discover comfort and empowerment as they embark on their supported journey.
Please register at: eap@accomponent.ca.
Wishing our dedicated flight attendants, a soaring start to a wonderful October! May your flights be smooth, your passengers be cheerful, and your journeys be filled with excitement and joy throughout this beautiful autumn month…
In solidarity,
Vanessa Beaudoin-Grégoire
Chair, Component EAP Committee
EAP Update – Week of September 11, 2023
On this solemn anniversary of September 11, 2001, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the significance of this day for all of us in the aviation industry. September 11th is a day that forever changed the way we view our roles as cabin crew members, the importance of our profession, and the strength of our unity.
It was on this day that our colleagues, and passengers, displayed unparalleled courage and resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Their actions serve as a constant reminder of the extraordinary responsibility that comes with our roles.
Today, as we remember the events of 9/11, let us also remember the heroes who emerged from the chaos. Let us honor the memory of those who selflessly put the safety of others above all else. As we continue moving forward, let us recommit ourselves to our mission as cabin crew members – to ensure the safety, well-being, and comfort of our passengers.
We support one another, and together, we continue to be a beacon of hope and resilience in the skies.
Please take a moment of reflection today, not only for the lives lost but also for the strength and unity that have emerged in the face of adversity. Let us carry forward the legacy of 9/11 by upholding the highest standards of compassion, and vigilance in our roles, but also to our peers, working beside us.
Thank you for your dedication and for being a part of this extended family. Together, we honor the memory of 9/11 and stand as a symbol of unwavering strength.
In unity and remembrance …
September 12, 2023 – 12:00 ET
Dr. O’Flaherty is an expert in crisis management, and a renowned expert in the field of trauma, addiction and recovery.
She’s had a love story for the aviation world since the late 70’s. Johanna was originally a Flight Attendant with Pan American Airlines and went on to develop and manage their employee assistance program for over 20 years.
Johanna is a psychologist, author, consultant and keynote speaker; she’s also just published her memoirs, available at Barne & Noble.
In the past 25 years, Johanna has been a catalyst for healing through many traumatic situations. During her career, she’s had the privilege to assist directly with the aftermath of major airline disasters, such as:
- Pan American Flight 103
- 911 in New York
- TWA Flight 800 – near Long Island.
- Assisted with the First and Last Responders during the aftermath of the Vegas Shooting.
She is an Advanced Level Nationally Certified Addiction Specialist, a Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP), and a Certified Trainer for Critical Incident Crisis Debriefing Programs
If you’d like to join us and be added to the zoom invitation, please send your name and employee number to: eap@accomponent.ca.
In solidarity,
Vanessa Beaudoin-Grégoire
Chair, Component EAP Committee
v.beaudoin@accomponent.ca