During COVID-19 the Office of the Advocate for Persons with Disabilities (OAPD) heard of the effect that increased social isolation and lack of services had on the mental health of Albertans with disabilities. Several areas of the mental health system were worsened such as:
- lack of access to health care
- lack of affordability of service
- lack of transportation to treatment
- not enough treatment options for persons with disabilities
The Advocate for Persons with Disabilities is inviting Albertans with disabilities, their support networks, and other stakeholders to share their experiences accessing mental health services in Alberta. Your voice is important to help the OAPD make recommendations to the Government of Alberta for improvement.
Please participate by:
- Responding to the online survey open until May 15, 2024 (https://extranet.gov.ab.ca/opinio6//s?s=62514), OR
- Registering to attend a virtual session with multiple dates and times in May 2024: Eventbrite registration (https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/818579311757/
For further information or questions, please contact the OAPD at 1-800-272-8841 or advocate.disability@gov.ab.ca (Please use the subject line: “Mental Health Priority”).
About the OAPD
For a number of years, many Albertans have requested an advocate who could be the voice for people with disabilities. In 2018, after public consultation throughout the province, the Alberta government created the Office of the Advocate for Persons with Disabilities and appointed an Advocate.
One of the top priorities identified for the Advocate was to build relationships with people living with disabilities.
In addition to connecting with Albertans with disabilities, their families and caregivers, representatives from the Advocate’s Office are able to attend and present at disability-related events, such as community meetings, annual general meetings or discussion groups. Presentations may cover the work of the Advocate specifically, or critical issues affecting Albertans with disabilities.
The Advocate and staff have been building partnerships with community groups, advocacy organizations and people with disabilities to better understand issues and changes in disability supports in Alberta. Ongoing input from the public is used to provide information and advice to the government with respect to the rights, interests and well-being of persons with disabilities.
The Office of the Advocate for Persons with Disabilities can provide assistance with questions about disability programs and services.
Connect with the office or make an appointment to meet with an Advocate representative:
Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (open Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays)
Phone: 780-422-1095
Toll free: 1-800-272-8841
Fax: 780-415-0097
Email: advocate.disability@gov.ab.ca
