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Calls for reform in B.C.’s community living services spark debate
The ongoing discussion surrounding community living services in British Columbia has reached a critical juncture as the B.C. General Employees Union (BCGEU) calls for significant changes to the Crown corporation responsible for supporting vulnerable individuals.
This push comes in the wake of a coroner’s inquest into the tragic death of Florence Girard, a woman with Down syndrome, which has highlighted systemic issues within Community Living BC (CLBC).
Union’s perspective on CLBC’s effectiveness
BCGEU president Paul Finch has been vocal about the perceived shortcomings of CLBC, labeling it a “bloated bureaucracy” that misallocates funds that should be directed toward essential services for those in need. He argues that the decision to separate CLBC from direct provincial oversight in 2005 was a “failed experiment,” resulting in inadequate governance and oversight.
According to Finch, the organization struggles to effectively coordinate with other service agencies, caregivers, and the families it serves, leading to a disconnect that ultimately affects the quality of care provided.
Community voices demand change
Advocacy groups such as Autism BC and Down Syndrome BC have echoed the union’s concerns, calling for “meaningful change” within CLBC.
They argue that for over two decades, the agency has failed to adequately support the needs of neurodivergent and developmentally disabled individuals in the province. Families have reported distressing experiences, such as being told there were no available spots for their children in adult programs after aging out of the school system.
This lack of support has raised alarms about the agency’s ability to fulfill its mandate effectively.
Government’s defense of CLBC’s structure
In response to these criticisms, both the provincial government and CLBC officials have defended the agency’s structure and operations.
Joanne Mills, CLBC’s vice-president of quality assurance and Indigenous relations, emphasized that the organization was founded on a grassroots movement aimed at providing community-based support. She warned that dismantling CLBC could lead to a regression to institutionalization for individuals with complex disabilities, undermining their rights and access to community resources.
Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction Sheila Malcolmson also highlighted the importance of CLBC’s independence, stating that it allows individuals with developmental disabilities to have a direct say in how services are delivered. She acknowledged the historical distrust stemming from past institutionalization practices and affirmed the government’s commitment to improving care and service delivery, noting a significant budget increase for CLBC in the previous year.
As the debate continues, the future of community living services in B.C. hangs in the balance. The voices of those directly impacted—clients, caregivers, and advocates—will play a crucial role in shaping the path forward. The call for reform is not just about restructuring an agency; it is about ensuring that vulnerable individuals receive the care and support they deserve.
