As Ontario begins a phased approach to reopening our economy, many businesses are looking for guidance and support to understand what comes next. Balancing economics and empathy takes on greater importance as we return to the workplace. Organizations need a financial model and cultural mindset that enables them to prepare for—and invest in—the future.

With uncertainty around navigating staff layoffs and recall, and new guidelines from the Ontario Health and Safety Association, employers are facing more pressure than ever to accommodate employee needs and create a safe working environment.

Demand is also growing for group benefits plans to offer virtual care and employee assistance programs to manage pandemic-related mental health challenges. Group pension and savings plans are experiencing increased market volatility at a time when many people are struggling financially.

With so many challenges in front of us, it can be difficult to know where to turn for answers.

Delivering meaningful thought leadership content is part of our ongoing commitment to our clients. In partnership with Canadian law firm Miller Thomson, Cowan was pleased to offer an exclusive webinar looking at the impact of COVID-19 over the coming 12 months, developed in support of the questions raised by our clients concerning the impact of the pandemic on their business.

Industry experts from Cowan and Miller Thomson addressed top-of-mind issues, including:

  • Retirement planning and design considerations
  • COVID-19 benefits claims: today and tomorrow
  • Wellness impacts of COVID-19 and returning to work
  • Structuring recalls and mitigating constructive dismissal claims
  • Meeting OHSA obligations while facilitating return to work
  • Managing employees refusing to return to work

To view the webinar, download copies of the presentations, or to contact us for more information, visit:

Return to Work, Wellness, Health Claims Trends, and Retirement—Impact of COVID‑19 on the next 12 months