Advocacy

Advocacy is sometimes divided into two types: systemic advocacy and individual advocacy. Systemic advocacy involves efforts aimed at changing legislation, policies, practices, opportunities or attitudes. It is directed at making changes in the system that will have an affect on the lives of a group of people. The Government and Community Relations Department at the Calgary Chapter addresses these concerns.

Individual advocacy involves working with and/or on behalf of someone with multiple sclerosis in the community to help them obtain needed services and to maximize their quality of life. It includes efforts aimed at supporting and empowering an individual. Individual advocacy helps where one feels he/she has not been treated as he/she should have been.

Advocacy may include assisting clients in the areas of financial support programs (CPPD, AISH), housing (accessibility, affordability), personal supports (personal care, continuing care, housekeeping, respite), transportation, equipment, and employment (disclosure, discrimination, duty to accommodate).

To inquire or access our advocacy services contact the Client Services Department at the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, Calgary Chapter at (403) 250-7090 or e-mail us at infor@mscalgary.org.