Family Council

A Family Council is an organized, self-led, self-determining, democratic group composed of family and friends of the residents of a Long-Term Care Home. The main purposes of a Family Council are to improve the quality of life of Long-Term Care residents and to give families and friends a forum for sharing their experiences, learning and exchanging information.

The Family Council can choose to hold sessions to share information and experiences, as well as educating Council members on issues affecting residents and families - sometimes by engaging guest speakers.  The sessions are for the families and persons of importance to residents. At the request of the Family Council, the Home can appoint a person to assist the Council and attend meetings at the Council’s request.  Typically the Family Council meets at least once a year.   

While each Family Council is unique, they generally focus on improving the quality of life, providing support, and assuring quality of care for all residents.

Family Councils are included in the Long-Term Care Homes Act, sections 59-68. The Act outlines the Long Term Care Home’s obligations to support the establishment of a Council, the powers of a Council, who may and may not be a member of the Council and more. For more information on the Long Term Care Homes Act, please see https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/07l08#BK74.