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Unions, non-profits partner to help low-wage workers

The first-of-its-kind service is being offered through TAPS after a spike seen with employment standards issues

Low-income, non-unionized workers will soon have a helping hand in labour disputes, thanks to a new partnership with United Way of Greater Victoria, Together Against Poverty Society and labour unions.

The first-of-its-kind service is being offered through TAPS after the non-profit experienced a spike in vulnerable youth and new immigrants seeking support with employment standards issues.

"We've been unable to keep up with the demand," said TAPS legal advocate Stephen Portman.

The project is being funded through $30,000 from United Way of Greater Victoria for the next two years, and $20,000 from the Victoria Labour Council and other unions.

"The labour movement fundamentally believes that all workers deserve fair treatment," said Mike Eso, president of the Victoria Labour Council in a statement.

"This project will help ensure that some of the most vulnerable workers in Greater Victoria who do not have the protection provided by unions, will still benefit from our support."

The project is being supported by unions from government, education and private sectors.

See tapsbc.ca for more information.