The residential care sector in Hamilton is facing significant challenges, according to a team of researchers. Despite being a crucial housing option for many individuals requiring daily assistance, the sector is deemed to be in a state of “crisis.” Data from the city indicates there are over 60 licensed residential care facilities in Hamilton.
A recent report by the Juravinski Integrated Residential Care Initiative highlighted that residential care facilities (RCFs) are struggling to meet the complex needs of residents due to outdated legislation. Research scientist Chi-Ling Joanna Sinn, leading the project funded by the Juravinski Research Institute, expressed concerns about the lack of adequate support for individuals with high needs residing in these facilities.
Sinn’s team has put forward six recommendations aimed at enhancing RCFs, urging the City of Hamilton to consider them during the ongoing review of RCF subsidies. Currently, the city provides funding to RCFs based on the number of individuals in care, subject to meeting specific criteria established by the city and province.
The report revealed that Hamilton subsidizes approximately 800 RCF beds, distributed among 48 facilities out of a total of 1,000 beds. Researchers conducted surveys with 32 RCF operators and spent more than 500 hours within RCFs, observing operations and engaging with residents. The survey highlighted a diverse range of residents in RCFs, with a majority having mental health disabilities, substance use disorders, and cognitive impairments.
Operators and staff in RCFs are under significant strain, often required to fill care gaps beyond their designated roles without adequate training, compensation, or support, leading to burnout and high turnover rates. The report emphasized the need for substantial improvements in the sector.
The traditional RCF model has seen minimal changes over the years, with RCFs expected to provide both housing and care services. However, the lack of flexibility in accommodating residents’ evolving needs often results in evictions, which compromise safety for all parties involved.
Resident safety in RCFs gained attention during a 2024 coroner’s inquest following the tragic death of Attila Csanyi. The inquest shed light on the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals in RCFs and recommended a comprehensive review of the facilities to ensure proper oversight and support.
Financial concerns were also raised in the report, particularly for residents on the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) who are left with a mere $149 monthly discretionary income after their shelter payments. Recommendations included increasing social assistance amounts and allowing residents to retain a portion of their earnings without deductions.
Hamilton’s Director of Housing Services, Michelle Baird, highlighted ongoing efforts to modernize RCFs and align funding mechanisms with provincial requirements. A consultant will present a report with recommendations to the council in November, addressing key issues identified in the Juravinski report and the Csanyi inquest.
Future steps may involve revising public health guidelines and licensing bylaws for RCFs to better reflect resident needs. Additional recommendations from the Juravinski report encompass enhancing staff support, funding based on resident requirements, promoting financial dignity for residents, and updating licensing regulations in Hamilton.
