Family members of individuals residing in several Greater Toronto Area group homes are expressing their concerns regarding the well-being of their loved ones after they were relocated to a new facility without prior consent. This situation has arisen due to developments involving Central West Specialized Development Services (CDSWS), a supportive living community catering to adults with developmental disabilities.
Recently, CDSWS announced that it had transferred residents from group homes located in Burlington, Halton Hills, Mississauga, and Oakville to its main facility in Oakville. This move comes in anticipation of a potential strike by its support workers, represented by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU), who have filed for a "no board" report, placing the organization in a legal lockout position starting October 9, 2023.
One family member, Sheree Burnett, expressed her distress regarding the relocation of her son, Jay Gualtieri, who has autism and has been a resident of a CDSWS facility in Oakville for approximately 12 years. Burnett was deeply upset after learning about the move, which occurred in early October, as she feared it would disrupt her son's established routine and stability.
In response to these concerns, CDSWS CEO Patricia Kyle stated that the decision to relocate residents was not made lightly. She assured families that the organization would ensure sufficient staffing to provide continuous care in the event of a labor disruption. Kyle emphasized the commitment of CDSWS to the well-being of its residents, despite the challenging circumstances surrounding the potential strike.
The situation highlights the tensions between the management of supportive living services and their employees, as well as the impact such decisions have on vulnerable individuals and their families. As tensions escalate in the lead-up to potential labor action, the community is left grappling with uncertainty surrounding the care and stability of their loved ones.
This incident raises critical questions about the rights of residents and their families in the context of organizational decisions that affect their living conditions and care. As the situation unfolds, the emphasis remains on ensuring that the needs and rights of those with developmental disabilities are prioritized and respected amidst labor negotiations.
