FAQ
How do I register for OES?
OES – Step 1:
OES Step 2:
For more information on applying for WorkBC Courtenay services and options available visit the link below:
https://www.workbc.ca/Employment-Services/WorkBC-Centres/Online-Employment-Services.aspx
What is your resolution policy?
ISSUE RESOLUTION PROCESS
The intent of this process is to ensure that any concerns or grievances presented to our organization receive a fair hearing and resolution and that lessons learned are incorporated into our training, policies, and procedures as required.
Our guiding principles are:
- Respectful communication
- Sincere desire to understand the issue and how it has affected the complainant
- Provide a timely, fair, objective and informed resolution
- Keep all parties informed throughout the process
The complainant is responsible for providing accurate information and responding to contact attempts by the WorkBC Centre. WorkBC Centre staff and management are responsible for gathering information, reviewing WorkBC policy, and considering whether the outcome desired by the complainant is possible and reasonable.
I am employed. How can you help me?
Anyone can use our Self Serve Centre.
What services are available in the Self Serve Centre?
The WorkBC Centre Courtenay Self-Serve Centre is open with 4 computers available for job search purposes. No appointment is necessary. Drop-in during business hours. The self-serve centre closes 15 minutes before the end of the workday. Booking time is still available if you wish. Call 250-334-3119.
Job Postings
We post the help wanted sections from local newspapers. Local employers also call us to have jobs posted in our online job bank.
Faxing of Job Search Documents
If you need a resume faxed to an employer, we can fax up to five a day for you. Job search tip: faxing of resumes is not an effective way to contact employers. It is best used only when the employer has specified that resumes should be faxed.
Career Resource Centre
You will find a large selection of books, newspapers, newsletters to assist you with your job search and help you gather labour market information. A Career Advisor is on hand for quick consultations.
Computer Use
Computers are available for conducting career research, applying for jobs on-line, and word processing job search documents. For complete details, see our computer use policy.
Long Distance Calls
Applying for work out of town? You can make up to five long distance calls a day. The calls must be directly employment related.
Message Service
If you are temporarily without a phone, we can provide you with a message number to include on resumes. Messages that are not directly related to your job search will not be taken.
What if I need individual help?
A Case Manager can help you.
To work with a Case Manager, you must be:
– unemployed, or working less than 20 hours per week or in receipt of a layoff notice
– actively looking for work, and ready to accept a job immediately
– looking for on-going employment – not a student returning to school
– legally entitled to work in Canada
Your Case Manager will assist you with your job search and connect you with workshops and other services. Please see http://www.workbc.ca/Work-BC-Centres/Pages/Services-Supports.aspx for more information.
Who is eligible for training funding?
We can assist eligible individuals with training when they cannot find work with their current skills. This is demonstrated through a documented job search. The amount of assistance is negotiated based on financial need and other eligibility criteria.
Training funding may be available for:
EI Eligible Clients – those who have an active claim or had an EI benefit period that ended within the last 60 months. (Some provinces have their own Maternity/Parental benefit plans. These may also qualify. See your Case Manager for more details.)
BCEA clients
Clients with disabitities
EI clients on special benefits (Sick, Maternity, Paternity and Compassionate Care) are normally not eligible for training.
People who have already started school are not eligible.
For more information, please call 334-3119.
I want to start my own business. How can you help?
Self employment services may be available for:
EI Eligible Clients – those who have an active claim or had an EI benefit period that ended within the last 60 months. (Some provinces have their own Maternity/Parental benefit plans. These may also qualify. See your Case Manager for more details.)
BCEA clients with PWD or PPMB status
Clients with disabilities
We provide eligible individuals with self-employment services when they cannot find work with their current skills. This is demonstrated through a documented job search. Acceptance into the program is subject to assessment of your suitability for self employment and the viability of your business concept.
Do Self Employment Services include start-up funding?
No. It is your responsibility to arrange for business financing when needed. The program does provide modest living supports when there is financial need.