CLIENT & FAMILY ADVISORY COUNCIL

Comprising a diverse and passionate group of individuals from our various care areas and communities, the C&FAC has been instrumental in fostering a client-centered approach to care, offering meaningful insights, and advocating for improvements in the various areas of Northwood’s service delivery systems. Through their regular meetings, the C&FAC has actively engaged with leaders, staff, as well as with fellow clients and their loved ones, ensuring that the voices of those who utilize our services are heard, respected, and considered in the decisionmaking processes. By collaborating with the C&FAC, Northwood has successfully implemented several initiatives aimed at promoting client empowerment, addressing system-level disparities and gaps, and enhancing communication and transparency in our services.

The invaluable feedback received from the C&FAC has played a pivotal role in shaping Northwood’s policies, programs, and services, resulting in a more inclusive, compassionate, responsive, and home-like environments for all. We extend our deepest gratitude to the members.

Our Diversity Committee continues to provide leadership to the organization. Diversity at Northwood continues to make strides toward a welcoming supportive environment for all. Most recently, the committee added "belonging" to its title, Diversity Equity Inclusion & Belonging Committee. We continue to grow and take every opportunity to celebrate when given the opportunity. We conducted a survey last year – Embracing Diversity and Inclusion at Northwood. To summarize, we are making significant progress but there is always room for improvement.

Some of our highlights for the year have been: Attending a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Conference in Truro in December hosted by Human Resources Sector Council. We continue to work with ISHANS to support our newcomers and staff who require support. We continue to receive support from The Association of Black Social Workers (ABSW) by providing education to staff. Recently, we had a drumming event which the residents loved. We also signed the Anti-Racism Recreation Charter back in October that will unfold over this coming year. Lastly, there is an opportunity to apply for grants through the Diversity and Community Capacity Fund through Nova Scotia Communities, Culture, Tourism & Heritage which we will take full advantage of. We are looking forward to the future.