Staff at the University of Vermont (UVM) Health Network Home Health & Hospice have voted overwhelmingly in favor of forming a Union with AFT (American Federation of Teachers) Vermont. Members of Hospice United perform a number of essential duties related to palliative and end-of-life care for patients with terminal illnesses. Despite a powerful 88% of Workers voting to form Hospice United, Administrators are still trying to challenge the inclusion of certain positions in the Bargaining Unit - such as Chaplains and Bereavement Coordinators. But the Staff isn’t deterred and is looking forward to beginning negotiations on a first contract. “We’re doing this to build a better hospice,” said Lindsay Gagnon, a Hospice Nurse Practitioner at UVM. “We deserve fair caseloads, so we can give each patient and family the best care possible at the end of life. We deserve fair pay that reflects the highly-skilled and specialized care we provide. We deserve respect and a voice, to ensure every Team Member has what they need to thrive while doing the work we are so passionate about.” Nicole DiVita, President for Health Care at AFT Vermont, said: “This is a big win. When Health Care Workers have a say in their workplace, care gets better for everyone. We’ve seen over (700) new Members join AFT Vermont in just the last few months. It’s a powerful time for Health Care Workers in our State.”

For More On This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Valley News - UVM Health Network hospice employees vote to unionize