In the fall of 2022, Health Minister Adrian Dix announced a security model that will add new protection services personnel known as Relational Security Officers (RSOs) to all health organizations across BC.
The RSO role is aimed at creating safer health care spaces for staff, patients and families by integrating security within the broader health care team, leading to improved cultural safety and a reduction in workplace violence and injury.
Providence Health Care is looking forward to welcoming 30 Relational Security Officers who will be assigned to specific units at SPH and MSJ in two phases, in late August and early fall.
What does “relational” mean?
In addition to standard security training, RSOs have extensive training in trauma-informed practice, Indigenous Cultural Safety and Humility, as well as Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Their primary focus is to prevent and de-escalate potentially violent situations, participate in interdisciplinary care planning on the clinical units and be an approachable resource for patients, families and PHC staff.
Understanding that typical protection services officer or security uniforms may be triggering for people who seek our care, PHC has chosen a uniform for RSOs that aligns with the relational strategy.
Uniform of the new Relational Security Team Lead
Paladin security guards will continue providing security services at all PHC sites, including patrolling premises and responding to emergencies.
Watch PHC News for more information about the new Relational Security Officers coming soon to SPH and MSJ.
Providing the best care to the people we serve is dependent on our own health and wellness. We can’t work if we’re not well, and work cannot be what makes us unwell. For 2023 we are working on a set of actions and strategies that will help us to create a healthy and safe work environment where everyone can flourish. We are also building out initiatives to bring new people to Providence, and keep the amazing people we currently have. If you have an idea that would improve your work life, please send it to Ideas: Forward. If you have questions or feedback about Workforce + Wellness, please be in touch: missionforward@providencehealth.bc.ca
