Halifax launches Voluntary Vulnerable Persons Registry

By CityNews Halifax staff

The municipality has announced the launch of a Voluntary Vulnerable Persons Registry, aimed at helping people who need it during emergency situations.

The VVPR, according to Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM), will help make sure emergency staff have the needed information to help prioritize the response during extended power outages or severe storms.

The VVPR is a voluntary, self-referral list intended for residents without 24-hour support who experience severe difficulty with any of the following:

-mobility
-vision impairment
-hearing impairment
-developmental disabilities
-cognitive impairment
-mental health conditions
-any resident who requires electricity for life-sustaining equipment such as oxygen, dialysis, etc.

Not eligible (exceptions may apply):

-residents receiving 24-hour support from a caregiver or home care aide
-residents receiving care or assistance from a long-term care home or supportive housing facility
-residents under the age of 18 who receive parent/guardian support; however, children with intensive needs that require electricity for life sustaining equipment may be considered

People can head to the Halifax website to find a form for the registry. HRM said staff will be going over applications to confirm people are eligible and will reach out to confirm information.