Family Support Institute of BC (FSI) responds to B.C. Coroner’s inquest recommendations on the tragic passing of Florence Girard
(February 5, 2025 – Vancouver, B.C.)— The Family Support Institute of BC (FSI) extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Florence Girard. The recent Coroner’s Inquest into her tragic passing has amplified critical concerns about the safe care, monitoring, and oversight of individuals supported under Community Living BC (CLBC).
FSI has been hearing from a growing number of families who are sharing their fears, concerns, and anger about the safety and well-being of their loved ones. Many families feel unheard and unsupported as they seek assurances that individuals with disabilities are receiving the care and supervision they require to live safe and healthy lives.
A key recommendation from the inquest is the reinstatement of the Provincial Medical Consultant role within CLBC. This position previously existed but was removed several years ago. The Provincial Medical Consultant at CLBC provided critical guidance on medical interventions and health-related concerns. FSI has been advocating to reinstate this role for years, recognizing that its removal has created serious gaps in medical expertise, oversight and care for individuals with complex health needs.
FSI also supports several additional recommendations from the inquest, including an increase in training for caregivers and CLBC staff on medical conditions and emergency response, the establishment of a robust incident reporting and review process, and the implementation of mandatory health and safety monitoring protocols. These measures are essential in preventing future tragedies and ensuring that individuals in care receive timely and appropriate medical attention.
“The reinstatement of the Provincial Medical Consultant is an essential step toward safeguarding the well-being of individuals supported by CLBC,” said Angela Clancy, Executive Director of FSI. “But this must be coupled with increased monitoring, better training for caregivers, and stronger accountability measures to protect vulnerable individuals. Families deserve to have confidence that their loved ones are receiving safe and appropriate care. We urge the provincial government and CLBC to act quickly to implement these critical changes.”
FSI stands firmly with families as they seek answers in this tragic time. We remain committed to advocating for stronger policies and accountability measures that protect the most vulnerable members of our community. We call on CLBC and government stakeholders to listen to the voices of families and take immediate action to implement meaningful changes prioritizing safety, dignity, and quality of care.
Find the Verdict of the Coroner’s Inquest at this link: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/birth-adoption-death-marriage-and-divorce/deaths/coroners-service/inquest/2025/florence_marie_girard_verdict.pdf
– 30 –
About Family Support Institute of BC:
The Family Support Institute (FSI) supports families who have family members with disabilities and mental health challenges. FSI is unique in Canada and is the only grass-roots, family-to-family support organization. FSI believes families are the best resource to support one another and the most vital voice for their family members. FSI supports all families with children of all ages, disabilities, and concurrent conditions. FSI’s supports are free to any family.
For media inquiries, more information, to share your experiences, or to seek support for you or your loved one, please contact:
Angela Clancy
Executive Director
Family Support Institute of BC
(604) 540-8374 ext 6
