Individual actions of VCAFC members reflect on VCAFC as a whole. Therefore, the actions of all members should ensure that VCAFC maintains and expands its high regard; working collaboratively with VCH to support growth of councils in long term care homes. The reputation and image of the VCAFC should be considered in each member’s communications and actions in meetings and in our long-term care home community.
CRITERIA FOR AN EFFECTIVE VCAFC MEMBER:
- Show respect, sensitivity and consideration for all persons you meet in our meetings.
- Develop an understanding of the MOH Regulations, MOH Guidelines and Resident
privacy and confidentiality (Residents’ Bill of Rights). - Be aware of how VCAFC is “part of” a Provincial Association of Family Councils:
ILTCCABC Independent Long-Term Care Councils Association of BC and act as an
ambassador of ILTCCABC. - Respect the sensitivity and confidentiality of information discussed at VCAFC meetings.
- Recognize that all long-term care homes are unique facilities and so are their Family
Councils. Be sensitive to this and refrain from blame or judgement. - VCAFC members should only advocate on the behalf of their local collective issues and
systemic issues identified in their own family council meetings which they have consent
to share out to VCAFC so as to avoid confidentiality issues. - Have a clear understanding of abuse (financial, physical, and emotional) and/or neglect
and report immediately to your care home staff first. Follow VCH complaint process.
Should you feel it warrants the immediate attention of Licensing. Do not bring individual
issues to VCAFC meetings. - Follow the tenets of Gentle Advocacy
- Know and follow all the rules of VCAFC. Lead by example.
- Understand that actions contrary to our code of conduct may result in dismissal from
our meetings by VCAFC Executive. - As a member of the VCAFC, I understand it is my responsibility to adhere to this Code
of Conduct.
