2. Contact members at the start of their absence.

Why do this?

When the school district or local unions fails to contact a member to introduce the JEIS program, members are often hesitant to participate and miss out on the support they need. This leads to valuable time being spent on follow-ups with members rather than providing them with direct assistance.

What to do:

  • Whenever possible, call the member directly so they can hear a friendly voice, using the Employee Contact Script to guide the conversation.

  • Ensure a trained back-up is available to make these calls if you are unavailable, so all members referred to JEIS are contacted before Desjardins reaches out.

  • If you cannot reach the member by phone, send an email with the JEIS video and JEIS email insert.

  • Emphasize that JEIS is a supportive and confidential program designed to assist them.

  • Clarify that participation in JEIS is mandatory, even if they have benefits through WorkSafeBC.

  • Also, explain that involvement in JEIS is necessary to remain eligible for long-term disability benefits, which serve as a safety net if WorkSafeBC coverage ends.