Your Digest

In-person donor recruitment events return  

As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic landscape, we constantly review and revise our safety measures and protocols as necessary.  We are pleased to announce that we have re-introduced in-person donor recruitment activities. Phase 1 is now underway to support blood, plasma and stem cell donor recruitment. At this stage, recruitment activities will occur at external venues and not at sites owned or leased by Canadian Blood Services. Donor Relations teams have received guidance to ensure all COVID-19 measures are followed. Phase 1 Guidance can be found on the employee portal.   

Spring mindfulness sessions start April 4 

The last few months have been heavy for many employees, between winter weather and the difficulties of COVID-19.  Maintaining good mental health in the face of all that can be a challenge. In a new Connect article, Christina Warrysh, wellness and recognition specialist, talks about the importance of intentional wellness. “As important as sleep and good nutrition, creating time to better manage stress and anxiety is critical in supporting our health and wellness,” she says. A new Spring mindfulness moment drop-in series debuts on April 4 and runs until May 30. Participants can join on Mondays at 10 a.m. ET, Wednesdays at 11 a.m. ET, or at both times. The new sessions will focus on themes of embracing brighter days, growth and appreciation.  

New program celebrates O-negative blood donors 

Only seven per cent of people in Canada have O-negative blood, the universal blood type which helps to save lives in emergency and critical care situations. This month, we’re introducing Frontline Donors, a new program designed to target O-negative donors in Canada. It will highlight their unique role as universal donors and celebrate their contributions to Canada’s Lifeline. “We are immensely thankful for all blood donors and know that there’s a continuous need for all blood types,” says Kirk Delaney, portfolio manager of donor acquisition. “But from trauma patients to newborns, when it comes to saving lives in an emergency, it starts with O-negative donors who make a lifesaving difference.” Read more about the new Frontline Donors program on Connect. 

Question of the Day: When performance conversations are completed this month, what are the next steps in the performance appraisal process?

Thank you to employees and leaders for taking the time to have those conversations, which will help us all work better together. Our goal in performing these appraisals is to increase employee engagement, provide feedback and recognition and to create tangible paths for employee growth. Leaders of non-unionized employees are expected to hold performance conversations with each team member by April 6. After each one, leaders should upload a summary of the conversation on SAP. After this, leaders will consider performance ratings for each member of their team and take part in calibration sessions, where they discuss the distribution of ratings and ensure that everyone is using the same criteria. Leaders will then finalize ratings and awards. More information is available on Connect and your PCP Business Partners are always available to provide guidance and answer questions.

About Your Digest

This digest highlights the latest policy and employee support measures, resources to help you manage our new reality and original content to remind us that what we do matters. This information can be found on blood.ca/employees from any device, no login required.

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