LYNN — The threatened strike by more than 1,000 Bridgewell caregivers has been averted.
Members of Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 509 reached a settlement with Bridgewell management late Tuesday following a lengthy negotiating session with a federal mediator.
Under the terms of the deal, workers will receive a minimum 9 percent wage increase over the three-year contract; the nonprofit will pay 78 percent towards employees’ healthcare premium, up from 75 percent; an increase in time-off benefits; and management has agreed to assist staffers who must renew their visas.
“Caring, assisting, and advocating for those that cannot do it themselves isn’t easy work,” said Tania Louis, a Bridgewell human service worker. “I’m relieved that they respect my work and my colleagues by approving a better contract.”
Ademola Odubiyi, a caregiver who has worked at Bridgewell since 2010, said he’s proud of the work he and his fellow human service workers provide.
“We got a better contract which means we can proudly continue our work caring for others,” he said.
Two weeks ago, workers provided management with the required 10-day strike notice while they continuing to bargain for increased wages and benefits.
The Peabody-based nonprofit operates group homes and provides care to 6,250 people that require residential, behavioral health, employment training, housing, and substance recovery services throughout the North Shore.
The tentative agreement, subject to a ratification vote by union members, is a significant step toward addressing low wages and staff turnover at Bridgewell, the union said. SEIU Local 509 represents nearly 20,000 human service workers and educators in Massachusetts.
Kelly J. Martin, Bridgewell’s interim CEO, declined to be interviewed.
In a statement, she said they are pleased to reach an agreement to increase wages for their employees who provide dedicated service to hundreds of people in their care.
“We recognize our staff’s important work to help make lives better for so many in our communities and we are committed to and proud of the high-quality working conditions and competitive wages we provide,” she said.
