Vancouver care homes warn funding shortfalls could lead to staff cuts, reduced services

Caron Bernstein has lived at Louis Brier Care Home for three years, calling the non-profit a lifeline.

“The staff is incredible,” said Bernstein. “Kind and loving.”

But rising financial pressures are putting that support at risk.

Louis Brier CEO David Keselman says provincial cutbacks, including recent reductions to pandemic-era overtime and nurse agency funding, are putting pressure on the facility at a time when costs continue to rise.

“Our funding isn’t meeting the current costs,” said Keselman.

He says the funding model no longer reflects the realities care homes are facing.

“We need that to be updated and reflect the current needs, the current needs for renewing supplies and resources for meeting the needs of our residents,” said Keselman. “Everything has changed. Cost of living, cost of our utilities, cost of our food.”

Louis Brier isn’t alone. Haro Park in Vancouver’s West End is already feeling the effects of staffing challenges linked to budget pressures.

One recent staffing shortage meant residents went without showers, according to staff.

BC Care Providers Association CEO Mary Polak says many facilities across the province are in similar situations.

“We have dozens and dozens of facilities across this province who are experiencing the same thing, many of whom are saying they’re either going to have to stop taking new admissions, which leaves seniors in need in hospitals or in homes where they can’t properly be cared for.”

Vancouver Coastal Health tells CTV News it recognizes care homes may have concerns about the withdrawal of pandemic-era funding and says it’s working closely with operators to address those challenges.

B.C.’s Ministry of Health says it is monitoring the situation and working on a sustainable long-term funding model for the sector.

“We remain committed to building on the important work undertaken with our partners to develop a sustainable funding model for the long-term care sector,” said the ministry in an emailed statement to CTV News.

Back at Louis Brier, the clock is ticking. With a budget deadline in the coming months, Keselman says tough decisions may be unavoidable unless funding is addressed.

“Either lay off people or really cut services back, close beds if needed,” said Keselman. “That’s a significant issue.”

That leaves the future uncertain for the more than 200 residents who call Louis Brier their home.

“I’d be disappointed, I’d be worried,” Bernstein said.