When asked, folks who know Larry describe him as “a kind-hearted man, always ready with a smile and a tune in his heart.” Larry participates in safety walks around the building often humming a tune.  During these safety walks with members of the OHS team, Larry jots down his findings and ideas in his trusty notebook.  He attends health and safety committee meetings where he has the opportunity to share his findings and provide a resident perspective on the day to day safety issues on site.

Larry’s involvement in safety at his residence hasn’t all just been about permits and identifying physical hazards; he is very passionate about helping any of his peers who may appear to need additional help. The fact that Larry is in such close contact with the other residents allows him to see if someone is struggling, showing signs of discomfort, and he is able to relay to workers how events might be affecting some of the residents he lives with. According to Claire Hildebrandt, Executive Director of the care home, Larry’s input has “lead to increased participation in ‘responsive behavior huddles’ [of which Larry has no part] … and new care plan ideas for residents, thereby decreasing the [negative] behaviors and increasing safety.”

Because of the success of involving Larry in OHS activities at Mount Royal Care Centre, they are now looking at other ways to incorporate a resident voice in more of their communities. Larry has paved the way! We at the CCSA wish them, and Larry, the best of luck and hope they continue to find resourceful ways to improve safety and include residents!