Join CLBC’s January 18 teleconference for
self advocates and families on COVID-19

 

Dear self advocates and families –

Please join Community Living BC (CLBC) next Monday, January 18 for an opportunity to hear from Dr. Daniele Behn Smith, Deputy Provincial Health Officer, about the latest health information and guidance on COVID-19 as we enter the new year.

We will also be pleased to welcome Nicholas Simons, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, who will join the call with Dr. Behn Smith, Michael Prince, CLBC Board Chair, and Ross Chilton, CEO of CLBC.

When: Monday, January 18, 2021

Time: 1:35 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

How to call in:

Vancouver: 604-681-0260
Elsewhere: 1-877-353-9184

Participant code: 87916#

* Due to the large number of participants, please call in at 1:20 p.m.

Self advocates and families are asked to submit health questions in advance by end of day Thursday, January 14 to [email protected] with the subject line: Jan 18 CLBC Call. This will allow us to answer as many questions as possible on the call.

We look forward to having you join us! For the latest information from CLBC, please visit our web pages with COVID-19 information here.

As BC rolls out its vaccination strategy, we have been receiving questions about the process and how the needs of people with intellectual disabilities are being addressed.

The BCCDC website outlines who will be receiving the first vaccines. People living in group homes (this includes people with intellectual disabilities) are among the first two groups to receive a vaccine, in February and March. We do not know at this time what that roll-out will look like and when it will begin but will send updates as we receive them.

Studies around the world have shown that people with intellectual disabilities are at higher risk for COVID-19 due to a variety of factors. The vaccine strategy in B.C. and Canada should address the unique needs of people with intellectual disabilities who are at higher risk, including:
• Older adults with intellectual disabilities,
• People with intellectual disabilities who have underlying health conditions,
• People living in congregate settings such as group homes, and
• Staff supporting people who are at higher risk.

Easy Read Information About the COVID Vaccine
These easy read booklets give helpful information about the COVID vaccine in Canada. You can download Things to know about the COVID Vaccine or What happens when I get the COVID Vaccine. Visit the Health Care Access Research and Developmental Disabilities (HCARDD) website for more plain language information about COVID-19 and the vaccine.

Other Resources
The UK-based Down’s Syndrome Association has also published a useful easy-read document about COVID-10 and vaccines. Note that some of the information is specific to the UK, where people with Down Syndrome are included on the priority list for vaccinations. Their Quick Guide on Decision Making is also helpful.