Central Saanich (B.C.)/CMEDIA: The opening of reportedly a new 26-bed supportive living home in British Columbia’s Central Saanich with focused support will benefit people living with significant health challenges from acquired brain injuries.
“Many people with serious brain injuries require specialized care and services that meet their unique needs…“By expanding access to supportive living homes, we are ensuring people can receive the right care in the right environment…help people regain their independence, while providing them with the necessary support and care to live well in the community,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health.
Operated by Connect Communities in partnership with Island Health, Connect Saanich Peninsula will provide comprehensive rehabilitation-focused therapy and care.
Having 13 short-term beds for people, the supportive living home would be transitioning to more independent living and 13 long-term beds for those requiring ongoing support.
“The SȾÁUTW̱ (Tsawout) Nation is honoured to be a partner in this important new health-care program, which will support members of our Nation, other W̱SÁNEĆ communities and south-Island residents…opportunity to push aside fear and helplessness in the face of brain injur…best hope rests with early support, encouragement and good people,” said Mavis Underwood, a SȾÁUTW̱ Elder.
Delivering a holistic approach to recovery with its Life Redesign Model of care, the comprehensive program at Connect Saanich Peninsula would not only benefit from a range of therapeutic services, but also empowers individuals to set their own goals and shape their future.
Included in this program are occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech-language pathology, recreational therapy and support from social workers and psychologists.
Personal care, medication management, life-skills training and opportunities to participate in cultural and social activities would be delivered to People living at Connect in a home-like setting designed to promote healing.
“In my opinion, this program will greatly serve to create community and belonging, as well as dependability, consistency and calmness to life and for those supported,” said Dean, a client of the Island Health brain-injury program.
Expected to open in 2026, a second Connect Communities supportive living home is under construction in Parksville will further expand access to specialized brain injury services for people on Vancouver Island.
Being part of the Province’s commitment to build up an entire continuum of care for mental-health support, these new supportive living homes with their services will improve brain-injury care by enhancing rehabilitation outcomes and giving people the opportunity to heal in a supportive environment.
