SFU have several resources to support staff and departments with accommodations. If you or a team member needs accommodations, here are some ways to access or learn about the available accommodations that staff can access at SFU.
What Is An Accommodation?
Staff accommodations refer to modifications or adjustments that enable employees to perform their job duties effectively despite personal challenges. These accommodations can include physical changes to the workplace, flexible work arrangements, and mental health support.
Individual Support Plans
Members requiring specific accommodations can work with the Wellness and Recovery Office to create an Individual Accommodation Plan (IAP). This personalized approach ensures that accommodations are tailored to meet the unique needs of the employee while respecting the operational needs of the department.
Physical Workplace Modifications
SFU says that it’s dedicated to maintaining a physically accessible workplace. This includes accessible office layouts and a physically accessible workplace so that staff can navigate their environment effectively.
Members can access accommodation procedures in GP 40, which state that:
“If workplace modifications are required, the Director will inform the employee’s supervisor. The nature of the disability, including the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment, shall remain confidential. Information that is shared with the supervisor will be shared strictly on a “need-to-know” basis.
“Costs associated with providing accommodations shall be borne by the University, either from the Accommodation Fund held by Human Resources, or from the departmental budget.”
We've bolded the phrase "Accommodation Fund" to draw your attention to it should your department or unit be pressed for funds. Our understanding is that you should contact SFU Human Resources for further details about the fund.
Flexible Work Arrangements
“Flexible work arrangements allow employees to alter their work schedule, hours, location, or take leave to meet responsibilities outside of work,” SFU says on their Join SFU webpage. “We are proud to offer hybrid work and modified schedules for eligible positions across the university in support of a healthy work-life balance.”
These arrangements are particularly beneficial for employees managing family obligations or health-related appointments. The University promotes such flexibility to enhance job satisfaction and retention. APSA’s AD 10.13 policy states that, “A member of the Administrative and Professional Staff at the University is primarily self-directing and self-disciplinary concerning the functions of his/her position. He/she will exercise discretion about the time and location of work performed in support of the established job objectives.”
Mental Health Support
SFU provides access to professional counselling such as EFAP, workshops on stress management, and peer support groups, promoting a supportive environment for staff facing mental health challenges.
APSA Can Provide You With Support Through This Process
If your experience with arranging an accommodation for yourself, differs from what you're reading above, please do contact us. If you feel overwhelmed by the accommodation process or need to focus on your work and well-being instead of navigating through all the procedures. APSA is here to help advise and support you through any accommodation. We are often involved in ensuring that our members’ needs are met according to our collective agreements.
Resources:
https://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/general/gp40…
https://www.sfu.ca/humanrights/educational-guides…
https://www.sfu.ca/human-resources/rtw-dm/workpla…
https://www.sfu.ca/human-resources/rtw-dm.html
https://www.sfu.ca/students/accessible-learning/p…
https://www.sfu.ca/human-resources/rtw-dm/workpla…
https://www.sfu.ca/content/dam/sfu/senate/senate-…
https://www.sfu.ca/humanrights/educational-guides…
https://www.sfu.ca/students/accessible-learning/c…