Section 810. Resident councils

A. The facility shall permit and encourage the formation of a resident council by residents, and shall assist the residents in its establishment.

B. The resident council shall be composed of residents of the facility and the council may extend membership to family members, advocates, friends, and others. Residents shall be encouraged, but shall not be compelled, to attend meetings.

C. The facility shall assist residents in maintaining the resident council, including, but not limited to:

1. Scheduling regular meetings;

2. Providing space for meetings;

3. Posting notice for meetings;

4. Providing assistance in attending meetings for those residents who request it; and

5. Preparing written reports of meetings for dissemination to all residents.

D. In order to promote a free exchange of ideas, at least part of each meeting shall be allowed to be conducted without the presence of any facility personnel.

E. The purposes of the resident council shall be to:

1. Work with the administration in improving the quality of life for all residents;

2. Discuss the services offered by the facility and make recommendations for resolution of identified problems or concerns; and

3. Perform other functions as determined by the council.

F. If there is no council, the facility shall annually remind residents that they may establish a resident council and that the facility would assist in its formation and maintenance. The general purpose of the council shall also be explained at this time.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 06, eff. December 28, 2006.

Statutory Authority

§§ 63.2-217 and 63.2-1732 of the Code of Virginia.