By: Shannon Kinch
Through the largest consultation process in CNIB’s history, we heard directly from people impacted by blindness across Canada that they wanted CNIB to provide more support in instances where their human rights are infringed upon.
In response to their feedback and to help provide greater access to justice, we are now offering legal support (referral services and litigation grants) to Canadians who encounter legal issues they may require support with as part of the CNIB Advocacy program.
While CNIB cannot provide legal advice or legal representation, the legal support offerings will help participants navigate legal challenges and ensure they get access to the legal support they need to challenge discrimination.
Our new legal support offerings include:
- Legal Referral Service. CNIB has established a directory of trusted community legal services and related organizations. Canadian residents with sight loss seeking legal support may use this service to obtain information and referrals to community legal services and other organizations. Legal Referral Service staff ensure that information is provided in an accessible format and that individuals receive additional support as required (e.g., assistance contacting the legal service provider, etc.).
- Litigation Grants. Canadian residents with sight loss who wish to challenge discrimination through legal action may apply for a litigation grant to help reduce the financial barriers associated with accessing justice. This pillar of CNIB’s legal support offerings is supported by a committee of volunteer legal professionals and community advocates who play an advisory role in determining which matters to fund.
To learn more about CNIB Legal Support, visit cnib.ca/en/cnib-legal-support
CNIB is grateful to its funders for their generous support:
CNIB’s legal support offerings are funded in part by the Law Foundation of Prince Edward Island and the Unifor Social Justice Fund. CNIB’s Legal Referral Service is funded in part by the New Brunswick Law Foundation and the Law Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador.
