Rights

The individuals we support are citizens with all the rights, dignity and prerogatives of Citizens of Canada. The laws that apply to civil conduct of all citizens apply equally to staff involvement in individual’s lives, homes, places of employment, etc.

Along with the most basic of human rights, individuals have the right to refuse service from the Agency and/or re-evaluate the role the Agency plays in their lives. Conversely, individuals do not have a legal entitlement to service and can be refused service with the Agency.

In addition to supporting the “Rights” conferred upon all people in Canada through The United Nations Declaration of Human Rights, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the Statutes and Laws of the Government of Ontario, the Agency undertakes to support individuals in making personal choices respecting all aspects of daily living.

Rights are generally conferred upon people by law or declarations of a level of authority. Choices on the other hand are decisions made by an individual. However, many choices in life can be as important or even more important than Rights declared by government.

Although far from inclusive, the following are perhaps the most important and common examples of the personal needs and wishes which we support individuals to achieve:

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to retain and personally decide on the use of their own funds;

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to be free from exploitation and abuse;

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to receive regular and adequate medical support under the Canada Health Act;

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to practice a religion of choice;

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to receive adequate and nutritious food;

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to be supported in a safe, clean and appropriate home environment;

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to have personal privacy respected;

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to self-advocate and appeal decisions related to personal well being;

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to interact with family and friends and have close relationships where possible;

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to have personal belongings;

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to choose services, recreational activities, entertainment and accommodation in line with personal needs and wishes; and

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to receive education and counseling on matters affecting daily life circumstances.

Persons served have the right to routinely expect all information to be held in strict confidence and shared with third party sources only on a need to know basis, in the interest of the safety and well-being of the person served and with the person or their designate’s signed consent.

Rights are outlined in the following legislation and can be viewed by clicking on the links:

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