Equity / Underserved Communities

As we work to strengthen support systems for caregivers, we endeavour to identify and support equity-deserving groups that are marginalized or constrained by existing structures and practices.

We seek to build and nurture new networks and better understand the needs of all caregivers from coast to coast to coast.

With our roots in disability community, we embrace the principle of “nothing about us without us.” We value and invest in lived experience and co-design approaches.

Mapping caregiver needs and supports in Nunavut

There is limited information about the unique needs of caregivers in Nunavut. To help address this knowledge gap and improve caregiver conditions, the Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence (CCCE) is conducting a collaborative caregiver needs mapping exercise with the Nunavummi Disabilities Makinnasuiqtiit Society (NDMS).

With support from CCCE, NDMS will: 

• Facilitate culturally appropriate, Indigenous-led sharing circles for caregivers in 25 Nunavut communities between 2021 and 2024
• Produce a report that outlines where services and supports are needed to improve the experiences of caregivers in the territory
• Identify practices and services that will fill gaps and create sustainable supports

About NDMS
Nunavummi Disabilities Makinnasuaqtiit Society (NDMS) is the only cross-disability organization in Nunavut. It supports people across their lifetime, from infants to Elders.

NDMS developed out of grassroots, community-based action. In 1999, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. provided office space and staffing to a small group seeking to bring awareness and justice to people living with disabilities in Nunavut. In 2005, NDMS was incorporated as a society and became the representative organization for people living with disabilities in Nunavut.

The mission of NDMS is to help all Nunavummit with disabilities achieve independence, self-determination and full citizenship.

Increasing support for Francophone caregivers outside of Quebec

There is a growing need for caregiving resources and supports in francophone communities across the country. The Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence (CCCE) is partnering with L’Appui des proches aidants (an organization that supports caregivers in Quebec) for a three-year initiative to help address this gap.

L’Appui des proches aidants will:

• Conduct a mapping review of caregiving organizations serving francophone communities in British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Ontario
• Evaluate the needs of caregiving organizations, including training, networking, cooperation, support and resource-sharing
• Provide direct support to caregiving organizations by offering relevant tools that are adaptable to the needs of their community
• Launch and support a francophone caregivers’ network with an online presence and in-person meetings

About L’Appui des proches aidants
Since 2009, the mission of l’Appui pour les proches aidants has been to promote the well-being and quality of life of caregivers. The organization offers several services, including:

• The Caregiver Support Helpline, a consultation, information and referral service, 7 days a week, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. by phone at 1 855 852-7784 and email at [email protected].
• The Resource Directory
• Online training programs for caregivers 

L’Appui pour les proches aidants supports organizations across the province of Québec that help caregivers and advocate for better experiences.