People who once lived in the province’s institutions are being offered assistance in applying for compensation as part of recent settlements in three class action lawsuits.
Many former residents of Southwestern, Rideau and Huronia Regional Centres alleged abuses were committed against them during their time at the institutions. Total compensation is in excess of $67 million.
Some claimants in the class actions and their families have begun receiving application packages from the Ministry of Community and Social Services as part of the terms of the agreements. However, due to incomplete and inaccurate information, some people are unlikely to have been provided with the necessary information to begin processing their claims.
To assist with the application process and the settlement terms, representatives from the Chatham-Kent Legal Clinic, Community Living Wallaceburg, Community Living Chatham-Kent, and the ARCH Disability Law Centre will host a workshop on Wednesday, May 14 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Countryview Golf Course, 25393 St. Clair Road in Dover Centre.
“An overview on how to apply will be followed by a general question and answer period, and we will also be available to further assist claimants and their families afterwards,” said Walter Van de Kleut, Executive Director of the Chatham-Kent Legal Clinic. The ARCH Disability Law Centre played a key role in ensuring that the claim forms and supporting documents were as accessible as possible to people with disabilities.
Former residents of the institutions are now able to file their applications with a claims administrator to seek compensation under the settlements.
Claims must be submitted no later than Tuesday, August 5, 2014. Resident files can be obtained by contacting the Ministry of Community and Social Services.
People who lived at the three institutions, their families, guardians and support staff are encouraged to attend this important session.
Those planning to attend the workshop are asked to RSVP by calling 519-352-1174 x 243 no later than Monday, May 12. With advanced notice, every effort will be made to provide French language translation.
