New framework to guide path to safe and well community for all

Waterloo Region – A bold new vision and framework for working with the community to improve the lives of those facing the greatest barriers to safety and wellbeing in Waterloo Region was endorsed by Regional Council last night (Wednesday).

The framework, co-designed with community leaders, will pave the way for transformational change – prioritizing a community-wide focus on the need for self-determined communities, strong circles of support, and accountable and sustainable systems. The framework represents a shift to a community-led, system-supported approach to community safety and wellbeing.

The framework is rooted in advancing Truth and Reconciliation, anti-hate, anti-oppression, and anti-racism, equity, diversity and inclusion, and addressing the social determinants of health as the core goals raised by the  community to address together. It also speaks to the need for equitable, accessible, and trauma-informed services for all.

The framework builds on the incredible work already underway in the community. It was developed through the stories, experiences, ideas, and calls to action shared by community leaders and organizations serving community groups who face the greatest systemic barriers to safety and wellbeing, including Indigenous, African, Caribbean and Black, racialized and youth leaders.

The framework was also informed by advice and guidance from an extensive network of partners and community organizations, including area municipalities, local school boards, the local health system, the police service, and many community, social, and justice focused organizations and networks.

With the framework in place, work will begin with the community on how to move forward in a way that ensures action and accountability. Indigenous knowledge and wisdom will lead and inform how to bring the framework to life. More information on the community-led implementation approach will be shared following further community engagement.

Quotes:

“For me, the fact that the plan names racism, discrimination, hate, and oppression as barriers to achieving our collective safety and well-being, and commits to using equity lens in pursuit of safety and well-being is giving me a new sense of hope that things will be different this time.”

Fauzia Mazhar
Coalition of Muslim Women and Anti-Racism Advisory Working Group
Member of the Community Safety and Wellbeing Steering Committee

“The emerging framework for Community Safety and Wellbeing in Waterloo Region grounds in public policy changes community members have been saying are needed for many years. As a community, we must now put the framework into action and be individually and collectively accountable for addressing deep structural issues that cause harm or limit safety and wellbeing for many in the region.”

Tara Bedard
Immigration Partnership
Member of the Community Safety and Wellbeing Advisory Committee

“I think in order to be successful in this work, the Region needs to come to an understanding that true and authentic engagement is an ongoing process, not just the duration of creating this report. Varied voices and all peoples are welcome to come to share, be heard, feel seen, and represent their voices so that the Community Wellbeing and Safety framework becomes a community driven action plan, and as a result the Region holds an awareness that they are accountable to all the voices who shared their visions for a healthier community for all. This is only the beginning – I'm looking forward to seeing this as a long term living planning document and not just a report sitting on a shelf.”

Melissa Ireland
Indigenous Outreach and Initiatives, Qualia Counselling
Member of the Community Safety and Wellbeing Steering Committee 

“The Community Safety and Wellbeing Framework was about listening and acting. It reflects the values of our residents. It will help us to identify community priorities for investment and it will serve as a meaningful, ever-evolving guide for how we work together in the future – shifting power and resources to community, where people and leaders know best what is needed.” 

Karen Redman, Chair, Region of Waterloo
Chair of the Community Safety and Wellbeing Steering Committee

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