Nova Scotia Closes Another Residential Care Facility: What the Human Rights Remedy Means for Disabled Residents and Families

Nova Scotia Closes Another Residential Care Facility: What the Human Rights Remedy Means for Disabled Residents and Families

If you or a loved one lives in a residential care facility in Nova Scotia, major changes are coming. The province has closed Atlantic Heights in Lockeport — the third facility to shut down as part of a sweeping human rights remedy. Seventeen more facilities are scheduled to close by March 2028.

This shift means residents will move from institutional settings into community-based living. While the goal is greater independence and inclusion, the transition can be stressful and may affect access to services.

What’s happening and why

The closures stem from a 2014 human rights complaint and a 2019 ruling that Nova Scotia discriminated against people with disabilities by not providing community-based supports. The government is now required to move residents out of large facilities and into smaller, community-based homes.

Atlantic Heights is the third facility to close. The government says residents will receive individualized transition plans, funded supports, and coordinators to help them adjust. The HomeShare program, launched in January, is one option for community living.

Who is affected

• Current residents of the 20 facilities scheduled for closure (3 already closed, 17 more to close by March 2028)
• Families who need to understand transition timelines and available supports
• Caregivers who may need to adjust their roles as care shifts to community settings
• Anyone with a disability who may be considering residential care options in Nova Scotia

What you should do

If you or a loved one is affected:

1. Contact your support coordinator immediately. They can explain the transition plan and timeline for your specific situation.
2. Reach out to the Department of Opportunities and Social Development if you have concerns about care continuity. Ask about funding, support services, and the HomeShare program.
3. Document everything. Keep records of conversations, transition plans, and any changes in care or services.
4. Advocate for needed services. If community-based supports aren't meeting your needs, speak up. The government promises ongoing funding, but you may need to push for what's required.
5. Stay informed. Monitor updates from the department and local news. Changes may affect daily life, and being proactive helps.

Bottom line

Nova Scotia is closing residential care facilities as part of a human rights remedy. Three are already closed, and 17 more will close by March 2028. Residents are moving into community-based living with individualized plans and supports.

For families, this means a major shift. While the goal is greater independence, transitions can be stressful. Stay in touch with your support coordinator, contact the Department of Opportunities and Social Development with concerns, and advocate for the services you need.

Key takeaway: The change is happening. Be prepared, ask questions, and make sure your loved one’s needs are met throughout the transition.