Former Lockeport Care Facility Residents Now Living in Community

Five Nova Scotians with disabilities are starting new chapters in their chosen communities as the Province continues to transform disability support under the Nova Scotia Human Rights Remedy.

Atlantic Heights, a residential care facility in Lockeport, Shelburne County, officially closed Tuesday, June 2. The government is required to close all institutions for people with disabilities, like Atlantic Heights, by the end of March 2028 as part of the remedy.

“This kind of change is a big moment in people’s lives, and we know it can come with excitement as well as adjustment,” said Susan Corkum-Greek, Minister of Opportunities and Social Development. “With thoughtful planning and strong supports in place, people are moving into communities in ways that feel right for them. We’ll continue to be there as they settle in, making sure they feel safe, supported and confident as they build their next chapter.”

Intensive planning and support co-ordinators worked closely with the former Atlantic Heights residents to develop individualized transition plans based on their goals, needs and preferences.

Families, service providers and community partners were also involved in exploring housing and support options that best support independence and inclusion.

The former residents will continue to receive funded supports, and the co-ordinators help ensure services remain responsive as needs or goals change.

Quick Facts:

• under the remedy, all residential care facilities, adult residential centres and regional rehabilitation centres must close by March 31, 2028, with residents supported to move into community living
• the Province ended all new admissions to adult residential centres, regional rehabilitation centres and residential facilities effective January 1, 2025

Additional Resources:

Disability system transformation news and updates: https://www.dsp-transformation.ca/

Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission – Remedy in Disability Rights Coalition vs. Province of Nova Scotia: https://humanrights.novascotia.ca/remedy

News releases related to the Nova Scotia Human Rights Remedy: https://news.novascotia.ca/search/all?field_topics=339