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When Things Change: What Families Should Know if a Home Sharing Arrangement Is Not Working
Home sharing is designed to provide a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. However, just like any living arrangement, challenges can arise over time. Needs may change, routines may not align, or the arrangement may no longer feel like the right fit. This is not unusual and it does not mean anyone has failed. It simply means it is time to review and adjust the situation.
For families and individuals, understanding what to expect when a home sharing arrangement is not working and knowing the steps to take can make the process easier and less stressful.
Signs That Something Might Not Be Working
Before taking action, look for indicators that the current arrangement may need attention. These include:
- Frequent tension or conflicts in the home
- The individual’s support needs are no longer being met
- Changes in health or behavior
- Lack of communication or growing misunderstandings
- The individual feels unsafe or unhappy
What to expect: It is normal for some issues to come up, but if these signs persist, it is time to take the next steps.
Step 1: Talk Openly and Respectfully
Open communication is the first and most important step. Many issues can be resolved with honest conversations.
How to prepare for the conversation:
- Write down your concerns so you can explain them clearly
- Focus on specific situations rather than general complaints
- Be ready to listen to the home sharing provider’s perspective
- Arrange a private, calm time for discussion
What to expect: Sometimes a simple adjustment to routines or responsibilities can solve the problem.
Step 2: Contact the Home Sharing Agency or CLBC
If talking directly does not resolve the issue, involve the professionals. Your home sharing agency coordinating services or Community Living BC (CLBC) facilitator can:
- Mediate discussions between all parties
- Suggest solutions or extra supports
- Help plan next steps if the arrangement needs to change
What to expect: Agencies support both the individual and the home sharing provider. One of their roles is to ensure safety, quality care, and smooth transitions when needed.
Conflict Resolution Options and How to Contact Them
If concerns continue or you feel additional support is needed, several resources are available to assist families:
- Coordinating Agencies Conflict Resolution: Most agencies have a formal complaint or dispute resolution procedure. Contact your agency’s coordinator to request mediation or file a concern.
- Advocate for Service Quality: Families can request an independent advocate who helps ensure the individual’s rights are respected and supports communication between parties. Ask your agency or CLBC for referrals.
- Community Living BC (CLBC): Contact your local CLBC facilitator for further assistance or to escalate concerns. CLBC can review service quality and help facilitate changes. Visit www.communitylivingbc.ca or call their main office.
- Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA): Your local MLA can be contacted for help navigating government services or advocating for timely resolution. Find your MLA at www.leg.bc.ca.
- Ombudsman of British Columbia: For unresolved complaints about government services, including CLBC, the Ombudsman offers impartial investigation and recommendations. Visit www.bcombudsperson.ca or call 1-800-567-3247.
Families are encouraged to keep records of all communications and steps taken, which helps if escalation is necessary.
Step 3: Try Adjustments Before Making a Big Change
Before ending an arrangement, ask about options such as:
- Adjusting schedules or household responsibilities
- Creating clear boundaries or written agreements
What to expect: Small changes often make a big difference and can restore stability.
Step 4: Prepare for a Transition if Needed
Sometimes a move is the best solution. If this happens:
- The agency and CLBC will guide the process
- The individual will be supported during the transition
- A new home sharing provider match will be explored, that better meets needs
What to expect: Transitions can take time. Agencies will prioritize safety and suitability.
Step 5: Care for Emotional Well-being
A change in living arrangements can be emotional. Families can help by:
- Reassuring the individual that this is about finding the right fit
- Maintaining a positive tone and respecting everyone involved
- Asking for help from support groups or advocacy organizations if needed
Final Thoughts
Home sharing works best when everyone feels safe, respected, and supported. If an arrangement is not working, early action and open communication are key. With the right support and planning, families can navigate these changes and find the best solution for their loved one.