Nova Scotia shifts employment support for income assistance recipients, leading to layoffs

Nova Scotia is overhauling its employment support for individuals on income assistance, transitioning them to the province's existing "Nova Scotia Works" network. This move, set to begin next month, will affect approximately 85 provincial positions and lead to some layoffs.

Previously, income assistance recipients seeking work received help through a service specific to the Department of Opportunities and Social Development. This service will now be phased out. The government says the consolidation will simplify access to support and eliminate redundant services. Shelley James, associate deputy minister, highlighted that the change could also reduce stigma by providing all Nova Scotians with access to the same employment resources.

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We do have a number of vacancies in the department that we will be looking to fill. So this, the voluntary (resignation) call, is the first step that we are taking in the process to try and minimize the number of layoffs.

As part of the transition, about 300 staff were offered voluntary resignations, and three non-union workers were laid off. James indicated that the department has existing vacancies, and the voluntary resignation call is the first step to minimize the number of individuals ultimately laid off. The government aims to streamline operations while ensuring continued support for job seekers.

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it will also contribute to removing some stigma, because all Nova Scotians can soon access the same employment services.