FCO Forums

A free, seven-part online series for caregivers, Family Council members, and long-term care staff. Each topic runs twice — a daytime session and an evening session — so you can join whenever works best for you.

Understanding Long-Term Care (LTC)

Navigating the long-term care system can feel overwhelming for residents, families, and caregivers. This session provides a foundational overview of Ontario’s long-term care sector, including how homes are funded and operated, the services and supports available to residents, accommodation costs, and key areas that contribute to resident well-being and quality of life. The session is designed to build confidence, increase understanding, and help families become informed and engaged partners in care.

What is a Family Council & Best Practices

Family Councils are an important part of Ontario’s long-term care sector, providing families and caregivers with a collective voice to support resident quality of life. This session explores what Family Councils are, their legislated role under the Fixing Long-Term Care Act, 2021, and how they contribute to communication, advocacy, education, and peer support within long-term care homes. Participants will learn about the powers and responsibilities of Family Councils, the importance of maintaining appropriate boundaries, and Family Council best practices. Whether you are joining an existing council or interested in starting one, this session will provide practical guidance to help Family Councils make a meaningful impact for residents and families.

Terms of Reference, Code of Conduct, and Confidentiality

Strong Family Councils are built on a foundation of shared purpose, clear expectations, and mutual respect. This session explores the essential governance documents that help Family Councils operate effectively, including Terms of Reference, Codes of Conduct, and Confidentiality Agreements. Participants will learn how these documents establish the council’s purpose, structure, decision-making processes, and expectations for member participation. The session also highlights the importance of confidentiality in creating a safe and trusting environment where families can openly share experiences, concerns, and ideas while understanding the limits of confidentiality and the duty to report concerns related to resident safety. By the end of the session, participants will have the knowledge and tools needed to establish, review, and maintain governance practices that support an effective Family Council.

Role of the Licensee

Strong partnerships between Family Councils and long-term care home leadership are built on trust, communication, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to resident quality of life. This session explores the complementary roles and responsibilities of Family Councils, licensees, and Family Council assistants under the Fixing Long-Term Care Act, 2021. Participants will learn about the legal obligations of licensees, including consultation requirements, responding to council recommendations, supporting council activities, and respecting council independence. The session also examines strategies for building collaborative relationships, clarifies the role of the Family Council assistant, and highlights practices that promote effective communication while avoiding interference with council operations. By understanding these roles and responsibilities, participants can foster productive partnerships that support residents, families, and the home community.

Leading Councils to Advocacy

Family Councils play a vital role in turning the collective experiences and concerns of residents and families into meaningful improvements within long-term care homes and across the sector. This session explores how councils can move beyond identifying collective concerns to engaging in effective, solution-oriented advocacy. Participants will learn how to identify collective issues, collaborate with residents and home leadership, prioritize concerns, and develop practical recommendations that support positive change. The session introduces tools such as the SBAR Framework to help councils communicate concerns clearly and constructively, while exploring both internal advocacy and external advocacy. Through a collaborative and resident-focused approach, councils can strengthen their voice and contribute to improving quality of life for residents and families.

Increasing and Sustaining Membership

A strong and sustainable Family Council depends on active and engaged members. This session explores practical strategies for attracting new members, building awareness of the Family Council, and creating meaningful opportunities for ongoing participation. Participants will learn how to introduce Family Councils to families early in their long-term care journey, increase visibility through communication and outreach efforts, and use events and relationship-building activities to encourage involvement. The session also focuses on member retention by creating welcoming meetings, recognizing contributions, offering flexible participation options, and maintaining ongoing communication. By strengthening engagement and fostering a sense of belonging, Family Councils can build a diverse and active membership that effectively represents the voices of families and their loved ones living in LTC.

Family Council vs. Family Advisory

Family Councils and Family Advisory Committees both provide opportunities for families to share experiences and contribute to quality improvement within long-term care. However, Family Councils have a unique and legislated role under the Fixing Long-Term Care Act, 2021. This session explores the similarities and differences between these two models, including their structure, authority, membership, leadership, and ability to influence change, and the value of transitioning from an advisory role to a council model. Through this session, families will learn how Family Councils create opportunities for advocacy, collaboration, and meaningful improvements in resident quality of life.

Questions about the Forums?

Registration details for each session will be shared on our Events page. For questions in the meantime, reach out to our team.