Workers union introduces service programs to benefit employees

Shanghai Workers Union plans to introduce 10 social and educational programs for city workers in 2019, especially for outdoor workers and those working flexible or casual hours like couriers.

The programs include instruction in construction of outdoor worker stations, explanations of how the social security system functions for casual employees, and even match-making activities for single workers.

Shanghai Workers Union has been organizing these kinds of programs since 2014. Almost 16 million workers have benefited from 44 programs at a cost of 920 million yuan (US$134 million).

According to the union President Mo Fuchun, the 10 new programs were chosen after canvassing district and industry level unions, as well as suggestions received through the union’s official Wechat account.

Around 100,000 workers with flexible hours, including those in the delivery industry and the self-employed, will come under the social security umbrella this year and enjoy health benefits.

“Workers classes” will be held during lunch breaks or after work hours.

Outdoor worker stations provide places for workers to rest, and 200 more will be built around the city this year to provide a shelter form heat and cold for outdoor workers.

In the past few years, over 80,000 workers around the city have benefited from a union legal aid program. This year, the program will serve around 30,000 workers.

Other programs include free health checks, patent award and bonus for workers’ inventions, subsidies for companies building breast-feeding rooms, etc. 

The union also plans to organize match-making activities for 10,000 single workers this year.