When a union member is injured at work, the clock starts ticking. At UCDC, we step in as an experienced partner, providing the hands-on support, training, and advocacy your union needs to protect your members
The System Is Stacked and Most Workers Are Unprepared.
Most people never expect to be injured on the job. When it happens, they’re often overwhelmed and under-informed. Paperwork. Appointments. Employer pushback. WorkSafe BC delays. For union reps trying to help, the burden can feel enormous – especially when dealing with psychological claims, chronic conditions, or long-term accommodations.
In British Columbia, more than 150,000 workplace injuries are reported to WorkSafe BC each year. Of those, many result in lost time, wage disruption, or long-term disability. And while unions work hard to support their members, the reality is: few stewards are trained in the details of claim management, appeals, or medical documentation.
That’s where UCDC comes in. We’re not here to replace your team. We’re here to strengthen it.
Real Advocacy for Real People.
UCDC was founded by Jason Thomas, a former Workers Compensation Board Chair and long-time Disability Manager for the United Steelworkers at Highland Valley Copper. With over 15 years of frontline experience—and a personal history as an injured worker—Jason built UCDC to fill a gap: expert, worker-centered support that unions could trust.
Our consulting work includes:
- One-on-one case management and advocacy
- Representation during return-to-work meetings and site visits
- Review and consultation on injury policies and accommodation plans
- Guidance on mental health, occupational illness, and harassment-related claims
- Appeals support for denied or disputed WorkSafe BC claims
- Disability award maximization and pension consultation
We partner closely with your union team, ensuring every case is handled with care, clarity, and a focus on outcomes that actually support the worker.
Contact us
A Collaborative, Multi-Disciplinary Consulting Approach.
Disability management isn’t just about filling out forms. It’s medical. It’s legal. It’s personal. That’s why our team includes a former Registered Nurse and works in close consultation with experienced workers’ compensation lawyers. Together, we approach each case from multiple angles – ensuring the worker’s medical, emotional, and financial needs are fully considered.
And we don’t just disappear after one meeting. UCDC offers flexible, ongoing support through regular updates, virtual check-ins, and scheduled monthly meetings if your team wants them. We’re committed to building real relationships with the unions we serve – because your members deserve consistency, not a revolving door of consultants.
Union Workshops That Build Long-Term Capacity.
While we’re always here to help with individual cases, we also believe in strengthening your union’s internal capacity to manage these challenges in-house. That’s why we offer practical, in-person training sessions designed specifically for union stewards, disability committees, and safety teams.
Our One- or Two-Day Union Workshops provide:
- Day 1 – Core knowledge: How to document injuries, explain member rights, and improve initial claim success
- Day 2 – Advanced topics: Employer obligations, psychological and occupational illness claims, and navigating appeals
These workshops are delivered on-site and customized for your team’s experience level and industry. We’ve seen firsthand how a few days of targeted training can reduce stress, increase claim success rates, and build trust between union leadership and members.
Why Unions Trust UCDC.
We’re not outsiders – we’ve been in your shoes. Our approach is rooted in real-world experience, worker-first values, and a deep understanding of the union landscape. We speak your language. We understand your limitations. And we’re here to offer guidance that’s actionable, not academic.
Whether you’re dealing with a single complex case or looking to overhaul your entire disability management process, we’ll meet you where you are—and help you move forward with strength and clarity.
Book Your Free Consultation.
We offer a complimentary 30-minute consultation to new union clients. No pressure, no jargon – just a chance to talk through what you’re facing and see how we can help.