BC
Services - Volunteer
Legal Advocacy Program
Frequently
Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What
exactly is the Volunteer Legal Advocacy Program (VLAP)?
A: VLAP is a new program launched by the MS Society
of Canada, BC & Yukon Division to meet the specific advocacy needs
of our members by utilizing volunteers who have legal expertise
and/or advocacy experience.
Q: I
want to apply for CPP Disability Benefits but I am worried
that I will be rejected. Can VLAP help me out?
A: Yes it can! VLAP has created a booklet called Canada
Pension Plan (CPP) Disability Benefits. This booklet
will guide you step by step through the application process.
And if you have any questions or would like support, the
VLAP has a pool of lay-advocates who can answer questions
and help you through the application process.
Q: What
if my request does not fall within the parameters of what
VLAP offers? For example, I am looking for a volunteer organization
to help me with my taxes.
A: The VLAP Coordinator will refer you to the appropriate
organization that will be able to fulfill your request.
Q: Is
everyone that applies to VLAP accepted?
A: Not necessarily. If it is decided that you need
a VLAP lawyer you must be ineligible for Legal Aid and
you have to meet the VLAP financial criteria and complete
the VLAP forms.
Q: My
colleague at work has multiple sclerosis and I think that
discrimination at the workplace is occurring, can VLAP provide
me with any information?
A: VLAP has created a booklet titled MS
and Human Rights and it deals with discrimination on
the basis of disability and focuses on employment issues.
Q: How
do I get started with VLAP?
A: Contact the MS Society, BC & Yukon Division at 604-689-3144
or 1-800-268-7582 and ask to speak with a service coordinator.
The service coordinator will complete an Intake form and
then the VLAP coordinator will review the form and contact
you.
Q: Can
VLAP give me tips on applying for disability insurance from
my insurance provider?
A: Yes it can! One of the booklets prepared by VLAP
is titled What You Should Know About
Disability Insurance.
Q: If
I get referred to a lawyer, will the MS Society still be
involved in my case?
A: Not directly, however, the VLAP coordinator is
always available for support and guidance throughout the
process.
Q: I
am looking for a list of legal community resources. Can VLAP
help me with this?
A: Yes it can! One of the booklets prepared by VLAP
is titled Community and Legal
Resources and it contains names, addresses and phone numbers
of community resources in the areas of advocacy, information
and referral, appeals assistance, legal advice and language
assistance.
Q: I
really need to advocate for myself within the medical system.
I am wondering if VLAP can advise me on how to advocate effectively?
A: One of the new VLAP booklets is titled Advocacy.
This booklet can help you understand the different types
of advocacy and how to be an effective advocate.
