Conversation on Community Inclusion Services
In October 2023, Community Living BC began a series of discussions with individuals, families, service providers and key community partners in remote, urban, and Indigenous communities to gather an understanding of people’s experiences, best practices for community inclusion programs, and what ideas people have for the future of these services.
Purpose
The purpose of this work is to identify best practices for community inclusion supports and recommendations for services and programs for people with diverse abilities in B.C. Following completion, CLBC will propose next steps to support the provision of community inclusion services which reflect current best practices and provincial commitments to inclusion.
The Process
From September 2023 to September 2024 information will be gathered through:
- Visits to the broad spectrum of community inclusion services in all regions of B.C.
- Conversations and discussions with individuals, families, service providers and others about current and future services.
- Research into best practices in B.C. and other provinces and countries.
- Documentation of consultation and research results, best practices, and recommendations to support the strengthening of community inclusion services.
Next Steps
In September 2024, following the conclusion of this work, CLBC will present findings and recommendation and begin dialogue and action on next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is CLBC undertaking this work?
CLBC and our service providers across the province are committed to providing meaningful, inclusive community services for individuals with diverse abilities. We are interested in what people’s experiences and perspectives are, what is working well now and what improvements may be needed.
I enjoy the program that I attend now and the relationships I have there with my friends. Will I be forced to go somewhere else?
No. This work is about CLBC hearing from you and understanding what is important to you, including the importance of your friendships, relationships, and choices.
I don’t want a “day” program. I’m Indigenous, I’m into hip-hop and I make my music at night and on weekends.
We know that different people want different things, including things that may not be offered right now. We want to hear what you want and what will work for you. We are committed to being person-centered and will work to ensure your priorities, your culture and your needs are reflected in the way the work is done – and in the recommendations following its completion.
Is CLBC initiating this work to save money or reduce the support my family receives now?
No. The goal of this work is for CLBC to understand how people are experiencing community inclusion programs in B.C. We will be asking you and your family about what support you need, what works well now for community inclusion services and how services can be improved.
My parents worked their hearts out to create the program that my brother has attended for the last 30 years. Are you trying to close it down?
Many of today’s community inclusion programs were created by parents and volunteers who were pioneers of the community living movement.
This work CLBC is embarking on will respect the achievements of these pioneers and be sensitive to the needs of individuals in current services. Recommendations will reflect preferences and best practices identified and any proposed changes will be person-centred and carefully planned.
The way my agency is funded limits our ability to provide fully inclusive community services. I want to talk about how CLBC, MCFD, and high schools can do things differently too.
As part of this work, CLBC participants are invited to share ideas about the things that work for and against inclusive practices. Your observations about the roles of all parties involved are important for us to hear and capture.
For more information, and to find out about how to participate and give your ideas, please contact Fred Ford at fred.ford@gov.bc.ca.
How can I participate in the consultations?
Fred Ford from CLBC will work with self-advocates, families, community members and service providers to identify communities and services to visit. Every effort will be made to accommodate the best ways to engage with individuals and with each unique community.
A variety of ways to give input will be available and communicated through local and provincial organizations. We can work with you to find the best way for you to participate – individually or in a group meeting, in an interview or a survey. You can participate by phone, on-line or when possible, in-person. We will try to use your preferred method.
For more information about this project, and to find out about how to participate and give your ideas, please contact Fred Ford at 250-812-2221 or fred.ford@gov.bc.ca.