Since announcing this major win for the profession, CASW has met with the Office of the Minister responsible for the programme and can provide the following update:
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The programme is not anticipated to begin until late 2025, but the benefit will apply retroactively for 12 months due to the nature of the application process: applicants apply after having met the required number of hours per 12-month timeframe in an eligible community.
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To be eligible, social workers will need to have been employed for a full year and provided in-person services for a minimum of 400 hours in an eligible community and have a Canada Student Loan that is in good standing.
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The definition of a rural/remote community will be changing: any community of less than 30,000 people will qualify.
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Applicants can apply yearly for a maximum of five years. The years do not need to be consecutive.
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The total amount that can be received per year has not yet been determined, though it is anticipated that it will be similar to that offered to nurses under the current regime (please see: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/education/student-aid/grants-loans/repay/assistance/doctors-nurses/amount.html )
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There will be no grandfathering: there will not be retroactive benefits beyond the initial 12 months.
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A period of public consultation is forthcoming.
For the past nine years, CASW actively advocated for the inclusion of social workers in student loan forgiveness programs. In Budget 2024 the Government of Canada committed to the inclusion of social workers in the Canada Student Loan forgiveness programme for rural and remote workers. The regulations to amend the Canada Student Financial Assistance are in the final stages. Prior to the 2025 election, CASW asked all parties to commit to upholding the inclusion of social workers in the Canada Student Loan forgiveness programme for rural and remote workers.
CASW will keep members updated through our monthly newsletter, The Reporter, as well as on social media as any new details emerge. CASW maintains an open line of communication with the Minister's office and is pressing for the best possible benefits for social workers.
CASW is further aware that the timeline for implementation may coincide with the next federal election. In this regard, CASW has sent letters to the Conservative Party of Canada and the NDP to ensure this issue is included in their platforms, as well (see below).
