woman getting vaccinated - photo by cdccdc

Nov. 15 Biweekly Update: Social Services Key Insights

/in /by

SOCIAL SERVICES NEWS

News, updates, and stories about social care in BC

Unveiling the latest developments in social services

November 15, 2024

Subscribe HERE

  • Health
  • Reconciliation Book Club
  • Communities
  • Opportunities
  • Housing
  • 2025 Social Policy Forum
  • Mental Health
  • Career Opportunities
  • Good News

Health

BC Bird Flu Case Confirmed, Health Canada Says Vaccines Ready | City News

Canada has confirmed its first domestically acquired human case of H5N1 avian influenza in a British Columbia teenager who is in critical condition. Health officials are investigating the source of the infection and have started screening close contacts, though no other cases have been identified. Health Canada has three influenza vaccines authorized for emergency use if bird flu were to spread more widely, with a production agreement in place with GSK for rapid vaccine rollout if needed. While experts like Dr. Brian Conway note that H5N1 rarely spreads among humans and there is no immediate risk of a pandemic, they stress the importance of preparedness due to the virus’s potential to mutate further. The public is advised to avoid contact with sick animals and stay informed on flu vaccinations.

Related:

Reconciliation Book Club

Fatty Legs (10th Anniversary Edition)

The Federation’s Reconciliation Book Club, designed to be inclusive and accessible for all staff in member organizations, is a key resource for increasing knowledge of reconciliation issues. Book Club members meet regularly to discuss a new book, and Federation staff ensure that the discussions are enriched with supplementary materials, including discussion questions, additional readings, and author and publisher information.

We invite you to join us for the next meeting of the Reconciliation Book Club on December 18, 2024. The book we will be discussing is “Fatty Legs (10th Anniversary Edition)” by Christy Jordan-Fenton, Margaret Pokiak-Fenton, and Liz Amini-Holmes. Don’t miss this chance to be part of the discussion. Sign up for the book club here: https://fcssbc.ca/bookclub/

Communities

Conversations in Kamloops | Inclusion BC

The Kamloops Community Living Community Plan report provides insights into community needs and strategies to improve inclusion and services for individuals with disabilities in Kamloops, BC. It identifies key challenges such as accessibility, awareness, and support gaps and highlights recommendations to address these, including enhanced advocacy, increased funding for services, and community-based initiatives. The report emphasizes collaboration among local organizations and stakeholders to create an inclusive, supportive environment that promotes independence and equal opportunities for all community members.

Related:

Opportunities

The Federation actively works to help our members stay up to date with what is happening across the community social services sector. Check our calendar for training opportunities, webinars, and events.

Housing

Is Immigration to BC Affecting Housing Costs? | Business in Vancouver

Experts emphasize that immigration alone is not responsible for BC’s housing crisis; instead, a combination of demographic factors and systemic housing shortages drive the issue. Despite increasing anti-immigration sentiments, largely driven by a post-COVID rise in housing prices, experts argue that immigrants contribute significantly to Canada’s economy and help counter low fertility rates. Government initiatives, such as federal cuts in immigration targets and increased provincial funding for newcomer services, aim to balance housing demands with population growth. However, finding adequate housing remains challenging, especially for larger refugee families and immigrants facing discrimination or overcrowded conditions. Chris Friesen from the Immigrant Services Society of BC underscores that stable housing is essential for newcomers to fully integrate and access critical services. Experts caution that scapegoating immigrants harms social cohesion and note that, despite challenges, immigrants largely view Canada as a rewarding destination.

Related:

Register Now!

2025 Social Policy Forum

Join us in Victoria, BC, from February 12-14, 2025, for the Social Policy Forum, hosted in partnership with the Federation of Community Social Services of BC, BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres (BCAAFC), and Board Voice. This year’s forum will bring together members from these organizations, government officials, and sector partners to explore critical social policy topics, including decolonization and anti-racism, cybersecurity, the health of the social services sector, and advocacy strategies.

Featured speakers include Dr. Jennifer Charlesworth, BC’s Representative for Children and Youth; Karla Verschoor, Executive Director of Inclusion BC; Shane Simpson, Board Chair of Community Living BC; Dr. Paul Kershaw and the Gen Squeeze team; Richard Watt from Total Support Solutions; and Suncha Satney, a Workplace Psychological Health and Safety Consultant with CSSHSA.

Early Bird registration is now open for members at $279 until January 13, 2025. Afterward, the regular fee is $329 for members and $449 for non-members. Special accommodation rates starting at $164 per night are available at the Inn at Laurel Point until January 13, 2025.

Secure your spot today to take advantage of Early Bird rates, and don’t miss this opportunity to engage with leaders in social policy and shape the future of our communities.

Register Now

For more information, contact us at info@fcssbc.ca.

Mental Health

BC Veterans Honoured with a ‘Glow-up’ so They Know They Aren’t Forgotten | Global News

In British Columbia, Whole Way House organized a Remembrance Day initiative offering makeovers for veterans facing homelessness, poverty, and mental health challenges. By providing haircuts, clothing, and personal care, the program aims to show appreciation and support while raising awareness of the struggles many veterans face. Participants emphasized the emotional impact of the event, underscoring how the act of care made them feel seen and valued.

Related:

Career Opportunities

The Federation actively works to help our members recruit and retain skilled staff. Click here to check the current opportunities.

Good News

If you have any feel-good, weird, fascinating, or amusing stories you’d like to see included in this section, send them to giovani@fcssbc.ca!

Note

The articles in Federation newsletters are for informational purposes and do not relate to the Federation’s advocacy work. We want our membership to stay informed of news relevant to our sector; the inclusion of a story is not an endorsement.

Subscribe HERE