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The Role of the Family Council Assistant

Learn what a Family Council Assistant is, their responsibilities under Ontario’s long-term care legislation, and how they support Family Councils in building strong, collaborative partnerships.

What Is a Family Council Assistant?

Under the Fixing Long-Term Care Homes Act, 2021, a Family Council may request that the home appoint a Family Council Assistant. This role is typically filled by a trusted staff member who is not primarily responsible for direct resident care—such as Recreation, Social Work, Spiritual Care, or Resident & Family Services.

A Family Council Assistant is not a member of the Family Council. Instead, they support the Council’s work and help make it easier for families to meet, collaborate, and take action.

Legislated Requirements

  • When a Family Council requests an assistant, the home must appoint one who is acceptable to the Council. (FLTCHA 2021, s. 67(1))

  • The Assistant takes direction from the Family Council, attends meetings when invited, and maintains confidentiality as required. (FLTCHA 2021, s. 67(2))

How Does a Family Council Assistant Support the Council?

Once appointed, the Assistant should meet with the Family Council to clarify expectations, responsibilities, and communication processes.

Typical supports may include:

  • Helping the Council schedule meetings and secure space

  • Assisting with communications, such as distributing meeting notices

  • Providing access to materials or information the Council requests

  • Supporting Council-led initiatives, when asked

  • Understanding and following the Council’s Terms of Reference, Code of Conduct, and other guidelines

The Assistant should always seek the Council’s approval before completing tasks on behalf of the Council.

Some Councils may choose to meet privately, while others invite the Assistant to attend all or part of their meetings. This is at the discretion of the Council.

Questions for Family Council Assistants to Consider

  • Does your home currently have an active Family Council?

  • Do you know who the Family Council chair or president is?

  • What steps can you take to support your Council effectively?

Questions for Family Councils to Consider

  • Does your Council know who the appointed Family Council Assistant is?

  • What information or documents (e.g., Terms of Reference, Code of Conduct) should be shared to help the Assistant understand your expectations?

  • In what ways would you like your Assistant to support your activities, such as meetings or recruitment?

Need Support?

For more information, guidance, or training, connect with Family Councils Ontario:

Toll-Free: 1-877-622-9968
Phone: 647-427-5551
Website: fco.ngo
Email: info@fco.ngo