Resident Council
Definition: An organized group of facility residents that meets regularly to discuss concerns, make suggestions for improvements, and advocate for resident rights. Federal law protects the right of residents to organize and participate in a resident council.
In Practice
Facilities must provide meeting space, accommodate council requests, respond to grievances, and not interfere with council activities. Resident council concerns are sometimes the basis for complaint investigations. Surveyors may attend council meetings or interview council members during surveys.