The Institute is pleased to join with BC Coalition to Eliminate Abuse of Seniors and the SFU Gerontology Research Centre to produce this issue examining the abuse of older persons. The Institute works closely with these organizations to inform the public and to advocate for appropriate policies and services for older persons affected by family or caregiver abuse. The Institute is also collaborating with the Vancouver Richmond Health Board and a large working group of health care professionals and community advocates to design and recommend a continuum of services for women and children who experience violence. The Executive Director is chairing the working group that will produce recommendations and an implementation plan for the Health Board by June, 2001. In the area of family violence and child custody and access, the Institute has partnered with West Coast LEAF and Vancouver Custody and Access Support Association to deliver workshops to women s advocates around the province.
Plans are underway to conduct workshops in Prince George, Victoria, and the Queen Charlotte Islands.
If your community would be interested in sponsoring a workshop, please contact our Resource Centre Co-ordinator Jenny Fry. The Institute is also holding a number of workshops for caregivers of children with disabilities throughout the province. The Institute is pleased to act as the administrative body for the newly formed International Association of Forensic Mental Health Services. The Association will hold its founding conference in Vancouver on April 19 to 21, 2001. Following this landmark event, the Institute will continue to administer the membership database and website for the Association.