Creating Welcoming Environments for Family Council Success
Par Family Councils Ontario
Our Family Councils Ontario staff team works consciously to provide knowledge to Family Councils on how to create environments where families of loved ones in long-term care feel supported. Our most recent journey to the Village of Aspen Lake long-term care home in Windsor definitely cemented the idea that creating a safe space for families to share their collective thoughts and goals is great in theory and practice to maintain an effective Family Council. For the start of October, we are happy to share some best practices on creating welcoming environments.
Think Family Friendly
Family Councils can take a family friendly approach when reflecting on how to create a welcoming space. First impressions definitely matter. Family Councils can consider posting information on their Family Council bulletin board that contains clear and concise language free of complicated jargon. The Councils can also look into translating this information into different languages. It is important to acknowledge that residents come from diverse backgrounds. Seeing the words “Hello” or “Welcome” and materials in different languages supports an environment of inclusiveness.
Assign an Ambassador
Entering a new environment of congregate living can be difficult for some families to adapt to. Family Councils can consider assigning a member or a team to being Welcome Ambassadors to share knowledge, experience, and peer support from the start of a family’s long-term care stay.
Start with Respect
A Family Council should push forth with a climate of respect. When new family members join a Family Council, it is important to enforce a healthy climate of respect as the core value. Setting a positive tone at every meeting is integral to maintain membership and commitment.
Simplify Communication
Family Councils can look into various methods for communication so that new and current members can share and receive information effectively. This may mean designating a Family Council contact person, creating a Family Council email or feedback box, and telephone extension.
The environment created for Family Council members is equally as important as the vision and mission of the group. Making it a top priority for your home’s Family Council to be a space where members feel heard, respected, and represented is a great way to ensure ongoing engagement and growth.
Photo by Belinda Fewings on Unsplash