The results from a recent survey of Winnipeg paramedics show the alarming impact that burnout, on-the-job violence, and understaffing are having in the workplace. An overwhelming 71 per cent of respondents said they have seriously thought about leaving their job in the last year.
"Paramedics are a vital part of our emergency response system, but ongoing challenges with morale, understaffing, on-the-job violence, and paramedics being unable to take breaks or time off is putting everyone at risk," said MGEU President Kyle Ross. "These dedicated professionals deserve the same care and respect they show their patients every time they answer a 911 call."
"Every day, we’re walking into unpredictable and often dangerous situations," said Local 911 President Ryan Woiden. "Without enough staff, without time to decompress after traumatic calls and without a shift in management approaches, the crisis will only get worse."
Key survey findings include:
- 93% have been exposed to violence on the job;
- 71% have seriously considered leaving their current employer in the last year;
- 78% agree or strongly agree that they feel emotionally drained or burned out due to stress at work;
- 67% rarely or never feel adequately staffed on their shifts; and,
- 63% feel not very or not at all supported by management.
It's time for Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service to take meaningful, tangible action.
This should include:
- Addressing management-related barriers that are impacting support and morale;
- Implementing preventative mental health supports, including decompression time after traumatic calls and time off requests; and,
- Prioritizing recruitment and retention to ensure enough paramedics are available to meet the demands of the job
There is no one simple solution. Significant change is essential to address a crisis that’s been building for years. This includes improving morale, increasing support, addressing exposure to on-the-job violence and filling long-standing vacancies.