After a 10-week strike, two youth mental health workers in Hamilton expressed that union members are returning to work feeling supported by the community but disrespected by the provincial government. Amanda Fry-Smith and Tamara Putland, who are part of Local 262 of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU), have worked at Lynwood Charlton Centre near Mohawk and Upper Paradise roads for 20 and 30 years, respectively.
The center offers four live-in treatment programs, day treatment programs, in-home services, counseling, and assistance in accessing other services for children and youth. Lynwood Charlton served approximately 2,300 clients in the 2024-2025 fiscal year, according to its latest annual report.
Around 130 members of Local 262 initiated the strike on May 25, the same time when about 4,000 support workers from various locals across Ontario either went on strike or were locked out during contract negotiations. OPSEU conducted a provincewide campaign named Worth Fighting For to shed light on these job actions.
The strike concluded after Lynwood Charlton agreed to mediation-arbitration with its workers at the end of July, resulting in a favorable agreement that includes a 16% pay raise over four years. The workers attributed their success to the campaign, stating that without it, the wage increase would have been significantly lower.
As operations at the center are returning to normal following the end of the strike, programs are being reinstated, appointments are being scheduled with social service navigators, and treatment programs are gearing up to resume. Michelle Hayes, the center’s executive director, acknowledged the challenges faced over the past months and expressed gratitude for the dedication of the staff and the support from families and community partners.
The union members, who picketed during the strike, found solidarity and camaraderie, strengthening their agency. They also connected with workers from other unions facing similar challenges, fostering a sense of unity and support.
Despite the strike ending, concerns persist regarding the government’s funding and support for the mental health sector. Members have expressed frustration over feeling undervalued and neglected by provincial leaders, prompting calls for an Ontario child mental health strategy and addressing issues such as underfunding and wage limitations.
Workers continue to advocate for fair treatment and are exploring legal avenues to recover lost wages. The government, however, has emphasized its investments in the developmental services sector but has faced criticism for not adequately addressing the specific needs of child and youth mental health services.
The ongoing advocacy for improved mental health services underscores the workers’ commitment to their cause, emphasizing the importance of community services and early interventions in supporting youth mental health and well-being. The workers maintain that their fight for better conditions and resources in the sector is far from over, highlighting the significant impact of community services on individuals and families.