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Top 5 meetings with MPPs
went well, say administrators Last week, as the results of the Top 5 Priorities campaign were released, people involved in the sector met with their local MPPs to discuss what people want to see addressed in long-term care. “A couple of outspoken residents (Bette Brocklebank and Olive Gray) went, along with our program assistant (Ann Skelly), who is a ball of fire, too,” chuckles Sharon Steele, administrator of Leisureworld O’Connor Court. They met with MPP David Caplan at his office and explained the need for more staff – which was identified in the campaign as the number one priority. “They told him that higher staff levels are needed to give the right kind of care, and they asked him what assurance would he give” that the matter would be resolved, says Sharon. MPP Caplan then reportedly replied he understood their circumstances and would do what he can – including talking to Minister of Health and Long-Term Care George Smitherman and possibly inviting the trio to a legislature meeting. “Then Bette said, ‘Good. I hope Mr. McGuinty will be there so I can ask him how many baths a week he has,’” says Ann with a laugh. In the Sudbury area, four long-term care homes sent more than 50 representatives to meet with their MPP, Rick Bartolucci. They were Extendicare York, Extendicare Falconbridge, Finlandia Hoivakoti Nursing Home, and the Elizabeth Centre. “Each home brought members of their family councils, administrators and some residents,” says Nancy Foreman, administrator of Extendicare York. “We felt Rick was very positive; he promised to take our message to Queen’s Park.” At Extendicare York, there was great participation in the campaign from families, staff and residents, says Nancy. In fact, the family council members took the reigns of the campaign. “Each member took a floor and went resident to resident, asking for their top priorities. The residents felt very good about it; they really felt their opinions were valued.” “We’re hoping for good things to come out of this,” adds Nancy. |