Richard Froese
South Peace News
Big Lakes County has denied a request from an agency for a discount for its support workers to use the Big Lakes transportation bus to assist long-term care patients.
At its regular meeting April 23, council approved a recommendation to deny the request from Blue Heron Support Services Association to reduce the bus rate for Community Access for People in Continuing Care (CAPCC) support workers assisting clients on the Big Lake bus.
“The CAPCC program is funded by the Government of Alberta and exists to provide meaningful opportunities for individuals living in continuing-care settings to connect with their community, build social relationships and improve their emotional well-being,”states a letter from Nicole Helmus, CAPCC service co-ordinator with Blue Heron.
Joussard Councillor Richard Mifflin suggested the government provide funding for the support workers to accompany the clients on the bus.
“There’s no reason why the government can’t subsidize the support workers,” Mifflin said.
Big Lakes Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) received the request, Pat Olansky, director of community services and planning, told council.
She noted FCSS recommended the request be denied.
Support workers assist two residents of J.B. Wood Continuing Care in High Prairie.
Blue Heron notes the program is valuable to the clients.
“Many of our individuals face significant mobility and health-related barriers, making outings a valuable part of their week,” Helmus says.
She adds the staff are a vital part of support.
“These outings would not be possible without the support of trained staff, who ensure individuals’ safety, provide mobility and communication assistance and promote engagement during community activities.” Helmus says.
“These workers are are not riding for personal benefit – they are fulfilling essential-care responsibilities ans part of the CAPCC service delivery.”
She adds seniors at risk of isolation is a major growing concern across Canada and outings for CAPCC clients is essential.
“By enabling support workers to accompany them on outings without added beneficial barriers, we are directly helping reduce isolation and enhance quality of life,” Helmus says.